India News – Dec 1-15, 2021, Vol 2 Issue 10

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‘Passed for the farmers, repealed for the US added to backsliding democracies for first time nation’: Modi scraps the 3 farm laws IANS

three farm laws.

Coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Modi also announced that the constitutional process to repeal the laws would be taken up in the winter session of Parliament that begins on November 29 and appealed to the agitating farmers to withdraw their agitation and go back to their homes.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

New Delhi, November 19 (IANS): A little more than a year after they were passed followed by widespread agitation by farmers declining to accept them, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 19 announced that the Centre has decided to repeal the

"It seems some of the farmers are still not convinced by our sincere efforts. We have decided to repeal the three farm laws. The constitutional process to repeal these laws would be completed during the Parliament Session that would start at the end of this month," Modi said, adding

an apology in his address to the nation.

Modi also announced to form a committee comprising representatives of the Centre, state governments, farmers, agriculture scientists and agriculture economists to discuss how Minimum Support Price (MSP) can be made more effective, how zero budget farming can be promoted and how crop patterns can be changed in a scientific manner.

After they were passed in the monsoon session of Parliament, the President had given his assent to the three Farm Bills on September 27, 2020.

Continued on Page 3

Mahatma Gandhi statue vandalised in Australia, cops begin investigations statue of Mahatma Gandhi that was unveiled on November 12 by Prime Minister Scott Morrison at the Australian Indian Community Center in the Melbourne suburb of Rowville.

The incident was reported on November 12-13, after which the Victoria police appealed for witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dash cam or anyone with information to contact the investigating authority.

Melbourne, November 16 (IANS): Attempts were made by

some unidentified persons to decapitate a life-sized bronze

Prime Minister Morrison has said he was devastated to hear about the vandalism, ABC news reported.

Continued on Page 3

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New Delhi, November 23 (IANS): The United States was added to a list of "backsliding democracies" in a report by the Stockholmbased International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance in a first for the selfdescribed leader of the free world, The Washington Post reported.

"The United States, the bastion of global democracy, fell victim to authoritarian tendencies itself, and was knocked down a significant number of steps

on the democratic scale," the International IDEA's Global State of Democracy 2021 report said.

The study, which analyzed trends from 2020 to 2021, found that more than a quarter of the world's population now lives in democratically backsliding countries, which International IDEA defines as nations seeing a gradual decline in the quality of their democracy, The Washington Post reported.

Continued on Page 3

Aus to open borders to international students, skilled workers from Dec Canberra, November 22 (IANS): Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on November 22 announced that his government will allow international students and skilled workers to enter the country from December to accelerate the economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Morrison said that eligible visa holders who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 will be allowed to enter from December 1, reports Xinhua news agency.

The announcement comes after Australia's full vaccination rate surpassed 85 per cent.

As a result, more international students, skilled migrants and refugees who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19, test negative within 72 hours of departure and hold a valid visa will be allowed to enter Australia, with priority given to skilled workers to fill

IANS

vacancies.

Additionally, Australia's borders will also open to all fully vaccinated travellers from Japan and South Korea on December 1.

All arrivals must comply with quarantine requirements in the state or territory they arrive in.

"From the first of December 2021, fully vaccinated eligible visa holders will be able to come to Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption," Morrison told reporters.

Continued on Page 3

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Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

COVER STORIES

‘Passed for the farmers, repealed for the US added to backsliding democracies for first time nation’: Modi scraps the 3 farm laws Continued from Page 1

The three Bills were Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 and Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill 2020.

Ahead of these becoming laws and soon after that, farmers across the platforms had embarked on agitation, some of them peaceful, some resulting in damage to the government property, including the riotous agitation at the Red Fort on January 26 earlier this year, and also including the loss of lives of more than 600 farmers at various places during the agitation.

Hundreds of these farmers -most of them from western Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana under the banner of Samyukt Kisan Morcha -- have been camping at various entry points to Delhi. They were not buying the Centre's argument that the three farm laws would bring in reforms in the agriculture sector and basically remove the intermediaries, because of which the small farmers will benefit.

three farm laws and appointed a committee, which had submitted its report, which is not yet made public.

The Prime Minister started his address, saying that the government's intention was pure, and it had brought the three farm laws hoping to benefit the farmers, especially the small land holding farmers. "Despite our efforts, despite efforts by agriculture economists and agriculture scientists, we failed to convince a section of the farmers about the sincerity of our efforts," he said.

"The objective of the three farm laws was that, the farmers of the country, especially small land holding farmers should be strengthened, they should get the right price for their produce and maximum options to sell the produce," he said.

He also listed a number of steps that have been taken by his government for farmers' benefits, including an increase in MSP and record procurement this year. "Beej, Beema, Bazar and Bachat (seeds, insurance, market availability and savings) are what we tried to bring for the small land holding farmers, many of whom supported our efforts. I am grateful to them," he said.

Rakesh Tikait of the Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), a prominent leader of the farmers' agitation, said, "Our agitation will not end soon. We will wait till the laws are repealed in the Parliament.

We demand that the government discuss MSP and other issues with the farmers."

In a tweet, Rahul Gandhi said: "Congratulations, it’s a win against the injustice, the farmers of the nation have compelled the arrogant govt to bend down through satyagraha."

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh took to twitter to express solidarity with the farmers. "First, bulldoze laws in Parliament. Then face unprecedented protests.

Thereafter, confront election realities in Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, particularly. Finally, after much appeal, repeal. Kisanity prevails at last! I salute the tenacity of our kisans who did not give up," he said.

Former Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh too lauded the step and tweeted: "Great news!

Thankful to PM Narendra Modi ji for acceding to the demands of every Punjabi & repealing the 3 black laws on the pious occasion of #GuruNanakJayanti. I am sure the central government will continue to work in tandem for the development of Kisan!"

Complex

"The world is becoming more authoritarian as non-democratic regimes become even more brazen in their repression and many democratic governments suffer from backsliding by adopting their tactics of restricting free speech and weakening the rule of law, exacerbated by what threatens to become a 'new normal' of Covid-19 restrictions," the report found. "The number [of countries] moving in the direction of authoritarianism is three times the number moving toward democracy", the report said.

International IDEA classifies countries as democratic (which

Continued from Page 1

includes those backsliding), "hybrid," and authoritarian, the latter two of which it considers to be non-democratic. It bases its analysis on 50 years of democratic indicators tracked in about 160 countries.

The report found that some of "the most worrying" democratic backsliding happened in some of the world's largest countries, including Brazil and India. It also highlighted "concerning democratic declines" in the United States and three European Union members: Hungary, Poland and Slovenia, The Washington Post reported.

Mahatma Gandhi statue vandalised in Australia, Aus to open borders to international cops begin investigations After the farmers' agitation erupted, the Supreme Court had earlier in January 2021 stayed the

students, skilled workers from Dec

migrants would "accelerate our economic recovery by helping to address shortages in our labour market and allow businesses to expand and grow with confidence".

"As our recovery gathers pace, businesses around the country are increasingly in need of skilled workers, whether they be in hospitality, mining, construction, or professional services," he told local media.

Continued from Page 1

"The return of skilled workers and students to Australia is a major milestone in our pathway back,

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it's a major milestone about what Australians have been able to achieve and enabled us to do."

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the move to reopen borders to

According to the Treasurer, in the last two years before the pandemic, Australia had averaged about 110,000 skilled migrants each year, while the international student market was a significant source of income for the country.

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Continued from Page 1

"Australia is the most successful multicultural and immigration nation in the world and attacks on cultural monuments will not be tolerated," Morrison has said.

"It is disgraceful and extremely disappointing to see this level of disrespect. Whoever is responsible for this has shown great disrespect to the Australian Indian community and should be ashamed," the Prime Minister was quoted as saying.

Jason Wood, the Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs, who was also at the unveiling, has said it was a "disgraceful act".

"Australia celebrates everyone's culture and traditions," he said.

Meanwhile, Surya Prakash Soni,

president of the Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria, has termed the vandalism as a "low act".

"The community is very shocked and sad," he said.

"Mahatma Gandhi is a symbol of peace and non-violence. He is not only an Indian leader but a global leader.

"I don't (understand) why anyone would do such a low act of vandalism," Soni was quoted as saying in a media report.

"An unknown number of offenders have used a power tool to damage the bronze statue on Kingsley Close sometime between 5:30pm on November 12 and 5:30pm on November 13," the report quoted a Victoria Police spokesperson as saying.

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

ADVERTORIAL

Eight hundred to attend special film night to celebrate Springfield’s Diwali Festival

S

pringfield City Group – the developers of the masterplanned community on Brisbane’s doorstep – have been overwhelmed by the response to their Diwali Festival Celebration, with 800 free tickets being snapped up in a matter of hours.

Springfield City Group Director of Marketing and Communications Narendran Sinnathamby said the final number was about double the tickets SCG had originally planned to distribute for the event, to be held tonight (Friday) at Event Cinemas Springfield in Main Street.

Mr Sinnathamby said SCG had been forced to book a second cinema to cater for the huge demand.

“We’d originally thought about 400 tickets would be sufficient, but they sold out in a few hours, so then we had to quickly organise for a second cinema to be made available for everyone who wanted to come along,” he said.

Mr Sinnathamby said the new Bollywood blockbuster Sooryavanshi – only recently released worldwide - would be screened exclusively as part of SCG’s celebration of Diwali, known as the "Festival of Lights".

He said guests would be gifted an assortment of Indian sweets sponsored by Guru Property.

“Tomorrow night will be much more than just a celebration of Diwali,” Mr Sinnathamby said.

“It will also be Springfield City Group thanking and acknowledging the tremendous contribution our large Indian community has made to the Greater Springfield region, which is one of Australia’s fastest growing developments.”

Mr Sinnathamby said guests would wear traditional attire for the event, which will run from 6.15pm to 10.30pm.

He said the first hour would feature a special VIP session for dignitaries including Federal

Member for Oxley Milton Dick, State MP for Jordan Charis Mullen and Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding.

“It’s the first time SCG has marked Diwali in this fashion,” he said. “It will be a fun night for all the families who will be coming along and a vibrant celebration of Indian tradition, culture and dance”.

Observed by more than a billion people worldwide, the five-day Diwali Festival of Lights brings prayer, feasts, fireworks and, for some, a new year. Diwali is India's most important festival of the year—a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

Left to Right, Praveen Mallesh, Raynuha Sinnathamby, Ipswich Mayor, Charis Mullen, Milton Dick, Umah Ranchigoda, Preethi Suraj Ram Mohan, Dr. Aashutosh Misra left to right Umah Ranchigoda, Raynuha Sinnathamby, Ipswich Mayor Theresa Harding and Neha Arora

Naren and Roopa, Anand and Laxmi

Charis Mullen (MP) with the Greater Springfield Community

Greater Springfield community 2

Greater Springfield community 3

Charis Mullen and the Greater Springfield Community

Charis Mullen and the Greater Springfield Community1

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Milton Dick Charis Mullen Sri Swami Atmeshananda and the Greater springfield community

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Greater Springfield Community

Greater Springfield community

Charis Mullen and the Greater Springfield Community2

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Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

ADVERTORIAL

Mining business shines in renewables From engineering equipment to give solar panels a sparkling clean to designing class leading mining truck trays, regional Queensland has the mechanical know-how.

A

dani Renewables Australia is working with Rockhamptonbased SMW Group to produce custom-designed equipment to clean the 247,000 solar panels at Rugby Run Solar Farm, near Moranbah.

Adani Renewables Australia’s Business Manager Derek Chapman said the new machine will help to maximise the panel’s energy production and improve operational efficiency.

“There’s a large mining services knowledge base in our region, so it is great to see companies like SMW Group who have always been focused on traditional mining use their capability for renewable projects as well,” Mr Chapman said.

“Adani Renewables Australia has a proud history of working with regional Queensland businesses and it has always been our intention to continue to work with local suppliers wherever possible.

“The cleaning equipment that SMW Group has developed is specifically designed for Rugby Run with the cleaning arm and rotating brushes tailored for our panels.

mining sector for a long time, so it made a lot of sense for our business to adapt some of the equipment that we use on a mine site for use in solar panel cleaning.

“We have been really impressed

by SMW Group’s willingness to work with us to get the product right for our operations and look forward to seeing the results of this relationship over time.”

“Securing a contract to supply solar panel cleaning equipment for Adani Renewables Australia’s Rugby Run Solar Farm is a great outcome for SMW Group and is a vote of confidence for central Queensland’ resources industry.”

SMW Group Operations Manager Cameron Tragardh said that SMW Group was proud to continue its partnership with Adani’s businesses in Australia after previously working with Adani Australia’s mining business, Bravus Mining and Resources to make custom haul truck trays.

“We are really proud to align ourselves with any business that values giving back to local communities,” Mr Tragardh said.

“At SMW Group we have been providing equipment for the

Adani Renewables Australia is part of the Adani Group, which in 2020 was recognised as the world’s largest multinational solar company with 25GW of operating, installed and committed capacity.

We remain on track to be the world’s largest renewables company by 2030 with a portfolio including solar and wind generation and a solar panel manufacturing business in India.

Sheep lend a hoof at Rugby Run A

nd in other news, in what is central Queensland’s first ‘Agri-solar’ arrangement Adani Renewables Australia is working with local farmers on a sheep grazing trial on Rugby Run solar farm's 600-hectares.

Trying to keep the grass in check around the 247,000 solar panels was expensive and quite difficult using mowing and slashing equipment, so in August last year, Adani Renewables put out a call to local farmers for sheep, and shortly after started a trial with 70 sheep with self-shedding coats.

there’s good food, good water, good shelter and plenty of space at Rugby Run – it’s sheep heaven.

During the day the sheep are able to use the panels as shade while they graze and several have now successfully lambed, which shows us that they are happy and healthy.

The joint exercise between Adani Renewables Australia and local farmers has shown that combined land use can have positive outcomes for both the agricultural sector and solar operators.

It has been a real winner as

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

NEWS FROM INDIA

Farmers' association asks states to 'Farm Laws Repeal Bill, 2021' cleared by cabinet undertake agri-market reforms

IANS

New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): Rashtriya Kisan Progressive Association (RKPA) has strongly condemned and refuted equivocally the false and malicious claims made by selfacclaimed, anti-reform, section of the farmer leaders.

If India needs to assure its citizens of sustainable food security and low food inflation, it needs to help farmers by the market reforms undertaken recently.

The RKPA has also implored the government to not get swayed by the anti-farmers lobby and have requested the Chief Ministers of all 28 states and 9 Administrators to ensure execution of the reform

in their respective states.

Chintan Shivir of RKPA has decided to put forth the interest of Farmers and will do a mass campaign for consensus building to the crucial reforms which are going to be repealed as was announced by PM Narendra Modi on November 19.

Emerging states like Bihar, the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and other marginalised pockets will be affected badly after this decision due to a small Antireform farmer leader.

These marginalised farmers, who are away from the national capital, were much hopeful with the recent three Farmers Act passed in Parliament which is now going to be repealed. In fact, 23 crops over which the MSP is provided affects only 33 percent of the farmers by all means.

National President of RKPA Binod Anand asked categorically, these anti development agents that

"which system will provide MSP for all the 87 varieties of Paddy and other varieties of crops from these emerging states, what crime have we done? Why are they killing our dreams and aspirations? These so-called farmer leaders want us to work in their farm as labour and helpers and force us to migrate."

The Incremental investments in Agri- infra, Agri- technology and democratisation process of value chain is now under threat.

The status quo on inter-state movement of farmers produce will force them in the web of poverty. There were expectations for better price realisation for farmers’ produce by the involvement of more private players entering and setting up trading platforms, innovative supply chain and would have driven investment in Agriwarehouses and overall food processing, generating lakhs of employment.

Kashi temple to have statue of Ahilyabai Holkar

Varanasi, November 24 (IANS): A statue of the Maratha queen, Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, who got the Kashi Vishwanath temple reconstructed in 1777, will be installed at Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor that is likely to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 13.

The temple complex will also have statues of Aadi Shankaracharya, Bharat Mata and Lord Kartikeya.

According to Divisional Commissioner Deepak Agrawal, "The process for restoration of idols of Goddess Parvati, Goddess Annapurna, Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman and Lord Satyanarayan in the KV temple premises has been started by installing prefabricated temples there."

Agrawal further said, "The process of installing statues of Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, Adi Shankaracharya, Bharat Mata

and Lord Kartikeya has also been started. The statue of Adi Shankaracharya will be installed at KV Dham's entry point near the ghat along the Ganga."

The statue of Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar will be installed near the tourist facilitation centre, while Bharat Mata's statue will be mounted near Mandir Chowk.

The statue of Lord Kartikeya is being installed near KVT. Each statue is 6.5 ft tall and will be installed on stone pedestals.

Since its construction by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar in 1777, the Kashi Vishwanath temple, considered among the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is witnessing massive renovation and development for the first time.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in November 2018 had asked the authorities to ensure that the

Addressing a gathering in Banga town, Channi said that during his tenure as CM, Amarinder Singh had secured the interests of the Badal family and Narendra Modi by jeopardising the interests of Punjab.

He said that due to this, Congress MLAs unitedly ousted him from the chair of Chief Minister.

Channi said the new party floated

by Amarinder Singh is also aimed

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at benefiting the Akalis and the BJP, thereby ruining the state.

Accusing the Akalis of ignoring the interests of the Schedule Castes, the Chief Minister said the Akalis have had an unholy alliance with the BSP, deliberately allotting them weak seats.

Channi said that in these seats, the Akalis will benefit the BJP to win. The primary motive is to ensure that the interests of the SC community are harmed, he added.

Training guns at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister described him as a 'rumour monger', who is least bothered about the state.

He said that Kejriwal is only

The Bill will be introduced to repeal the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance, Farm Services Act, 2020, and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act,

Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar

statue of Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar is installed as a tribute to her for rebuilding KVT in 1777 after it was destroyed in the Mughal period.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also paid tributes to Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar and paved the way for developing facilities for hassle-free visit of pilgrims to the shrine.

making hollow promises, whereas his government is delivering good governance and clean administration to the people.

Channi also asked the people to not get misled by the tall claims of Kejriwal and company.

The Chief Minister said that an elite and unholy nexus of politicians cutting across party lines had excluded power from the common man just to loot Punjab. He said the members of this elite group have a common bond in the form of their own vested interests to loot the state.

However, Channi said that now this nexus has been broken and the power is with the common

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2020.

The Lok Sabha Bulletin on November 23 had already listed 'The Farm Laws Repeal Bill, 2021'.

PM Modi's announcement had come after more than a year-long farmers' agitation where they have been demanding the repeal of the three laws along with the legal backing for Minimum Support Price among other things.

The Parliament had cleared the three farm bills last year but the Supreme Court had stayed them this January.

BJP MP Gambhir receives death threat from ISIS-Kashmir IANS

New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): Former cricketer and Bharatiya Janata Party MP Gautam Gambhir has filed a complaint with the Delhi Police, alleging that he and his family have received death threats from ISIS-Kashmir.

"We have received an email from ISIS-Kashmir on the official ID of MP Gautam Gambhir on November 23 at 9.32 p.m.," read the complaint filed by Gambhir's PS.

Amarinder conniving with Akalis, BJP: Punjab CM Chandigarh, November 23 (IANS): Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on November 23 slammed former CM Amarinder Singh for 'conniving' with Akalis and the BJP to harm the interests of the state.

New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): The union cabinet on November 24 cleared 'The Farm Laws Repeal Bill, 2021' that will repeal the three contentious farm laws, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 19.

The mail, accessed by IANS, read: "We are going to kill you and your family." Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Shweta Chauhan said that an investigation into

the matter is underway and the security arrangement outside the Delhi MP's residence has been tightened.

Notably, the 40-year-old cricketer-turned-politician, a staunch nationalist, has been extremely vocal about the issue of terrorism in Kahmir.

Earlier in December 2019 as well, Gambhir had approached the Delhi Police alleging death threats to him and his family members from an international number. He had then also urged the police to lodge a case and ensure the safety and security of his family.

Punjab CM had connived with Badals: Amarinder Chandigarh, November 23 (IANS): Former Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on November 23 ridiculed present Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi for his frequent accusations that he had "connived with the Badals" and harmed Punjab's interests.

He said it was the other way round, as it was Channi who had connived with and capitulated before the Badals to save his brother in the Ludhiana City Centre case.

"It is a classic case of pot calling the kettle black," Amarinder Singh said, adding, "It is not me, but Channi who had pledged his support and conscience to the Badals to save his brother."

Responding to Channi's accusations, Amarinder Singh said, "Although I did not want to join the issue, his (Channi's) frequent false accusations

The Indian Express

have forced me to reveal his capitulation before Sukhbir Singh Badal in 2007 to save his brother, who was an accused along with me in the Ludhiana City Centre case."

Amarinder Singh pointed out that he had put the Badals behind the bars in 2002 and in reprisal they had filed a false case against him, which he fought in the courts for 13 years, while Channi, who at that time was an Independent MLA, had tried to buy peace with them to save his brother and pledged his support to the Badals in the Vidhan Sabha.

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Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

Kejriwal's pilgrimage scheme to get its first Christian site IANS

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal

New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): After adding Ayodhya to the list of pilgrimage sites under the 'Mukhyamantri Tirtha Yatra Yojana', Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will soon include Velankanni Church in Tamil Nadu, one of the most revered pilgrimages for Catholics in the country, under the scheme.

"Many of our Christian brothers

had pointed out that none of their pilgrimage sites were included in the scheme. There is good news for them that Velankanni Church will be added to the Mukhyamantri Tirtha Yatra Yojana (Chief Minister's Pilgrimage Scheme) soon," Kejriwal said during a virtual press conference on November 24.

On October 27, the Chief Minister had added Ayodhya to the scheme under which elderly people are provided travel by air conditioned trains and stay in good, air conditioned hotels free of cost.

"The first train to Ayodhya will start from December 3.

Registrations for the same have opened. One youth can accompany an elderly person," he said, adding that there is no need to become stressed if one

train gets booked, "we will start another train soon."

"Over 36,000 people have benefitted from the scheme, so far. Ayodhya has made it to the list of Mukhyamantri Tirth Kalyan Yojna in addition to other pilgrimage sites like Jagannath Puri, Ujjain, Shirdi, Amritsar, Jammu, Dwarka, Mathura, Tirupati, Rameshwaram, Haridwar and Bodh Gaya. We will also assist those who want to visit Ram Lalla in Ayodhya free of cost.

"I was fortunate that I got the chance to bow before Ram Lalla and I wish everyone gets this chance. Whatever capability I have, I will use that to make more and more people visit there," he said while making the announcement in October.

Akhilesh agrees to 36 seats for RLD, 6 to have SP candidates

IANS

in Uttar Pradesh.

According to highly placed sources, SP president Akhilesh Yadav, who held a meeting with RLD president Jayant Chaudhary on November 23 evening in Lucknow, has agreed to give 36 seats to the RLD. However, on six of these seats, the candidates will be from Samajwadi Party but will contest on the RLD symbol.

SP president Akhilesh Yadav (right) with RLD president Jayant Chaudhary

Lucknow, November 24 (IANS): The Samajwadi Party (SP) and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) have almost finalised seat-sharing for the upcoming Assembly elections

A similar arrangement had been seen in Kairana in the 2018 Lok Sabha by-election, when Tabassum Hasan of Samajwadi Party had contested on RLD ticket.

A SP leader explained, "The arrangement works well because cadres of both parties feel a sense of involvement with the candidate."

The RLD, political experts claim, is much better positioned in western Uttar Pradesh, especially after the farmers' agitation in which Jayant Chaudhary actively participated.

It was decided that while parties in alliance with the Samajwadi Party can release their own manifestos for the Assembly polls, a common minimum programme will be drafted when it comes to the government formation.

Manish Tewari's book proves UPA had endangered national security : BJP New Delhi, November 23 (IANS): The BJP on November 23 flayed the Congress saying that the book penned by its leader Manish Tewari has proved that the UPA government had put the country's national security at stake.

Talking to media persons at the party headquarters here, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia said: "Entire country knew this reality of UPA government, the saffron party had been saying that, and now even Congress leader and former Central minister Manish Tewari has confessed that the UPA government had put national security at stake."

Bhatia sought an explanation from Congress leaders Sonia

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Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi on why after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the UPA government did not give a free hand to the armed forces to take decisive steps against Pakistan.

"Instead of taking strict action against Pakistan, Rahul Gandhi was busy partying all night and the then Home Minister Shivraj Patil, in helping Bollywood. The Congress leaders were busy in proving the "theory of 'Hindu terrorism'," Bhatia claimed.

Asserting that the country has witnessed a sea change under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bhatia said: "After the Pulwama attack, the Army was given a free hand post which the Balakot strike was conducted and Pakistan was taught a lesson."

Poster of beheaded Shiva statue in ISIS online magazine causes outrage Uttara Kannada (Karnataka), November 23 (IANS): A recent post by an India-centric online propaganda magazine by terrorist outfit ISIS has gone viral and has created a tense situation in the communally sensitive coastal district of Uttara Kannada in Karnataka.

Self-styled analyst and observer, Anshul Saxena has shared an image on Twitter. The magazine poster has put out a picture of a beheaded Shiva statue. The poster also shows the head being replaced by an ISIS flag.

The idol in the poster resembles the 123 feet tall famous Shiva statue located in Murudeshwara town beach of Uttara Kannada district. It is one of the pilgrimage centres as well as a major tourist destination.

The poster claims below the image that, "It's time to come to break false gods". The post shared

by Anshul Saxena has gone viral and Hindu outfits are furious over it.

"Not only Pakistan, but our forces have taught a lesson to China too. Now, both the nations have understood that the Modi government is too serious about national security and how capable Indian Forces are," Bhatia noted.

In his book announced by him on November 22 on Twitter and to be officially released on December 2, Tewari has raised questions about the Manmohan Singh government's policy on national security.

"For a state that has no compunctions in brutally slaughtering hundreds of innocent people, restraint is not a sign of strength; it is perceived as a symbol of weakness. There comes a time when actions must speak louder than words.

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IANS

Anshul Saxena has asked the state as well as central government to scale up security measures of Murudeshwara town in the backdrop of ISIS magazine publishing the beheaded image.

After his appeal, the state government has beefed up the security at Murudeshwara temple.

Murudeshwara coastal town is located very close to Bhatkal town, which is under constant watch of Indian Intelligence agencies for anti-national activities. Terrorists Yasin Bhatkal and others hail from this city.

35% MLAs in UP have criminal cases: ADR Report Times Now

The two leaders, at the meeting which was held without any aides, also discussed the political situation in western part of the state after the Centre's decision to repeal farm laws.

Talks were also held about a common minimum programme even though the RLD has already released its manifesto in October.

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crorepatis and the SP has 42 crorepatis in the 49 MLAs. The BSP has 15 crorepatis while the Congress has five.

In BSP, the richest legislators are Guddu Jamali from Azamgarh and Vinay Tiwari from Gorakhpur.

Lucknow, November 23 (IANS): The Association for Democratic Reforms, on November 23, released a detailed survey of 396 sitting legislators in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly that has a strength of 403 members.

The ADR report claims that 35 per cent (140) legislators have criminal cases registered against them and 27 per cent legislators have some sort of links with crime.

Of the 304 MLAs, 77 have criminal cases against them, while 18 in the 49-member Samajwadi Party are in the same category.

In the Bahujan Samaj Party which has 18 members, two have criminal antecedents while the Congress has one such member.

The report further states that among the 396 legislators, 313 are crorepatis.

The BJP with 304 MLAs, has 235 26/11 was one such time when it just should have been done.

It, therefore, is my considered opinion that India should have actioned a kinetic response in the days following India's 9/11," excerpts from the book say.

This week the nation will observe the 13th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, which

Interestingly, two BJP MLAs, who are ministers, still have loans to repay. They are Nand Gopal Nandi and Siddhartha Nath Singh.

The low asset MLAs include Ajay Kumar Lallu of Congress and Dhananjay and Vijay Rajbhar of BJP. Of the 396 MLAs, 95 have not gone beyond class 12 education level.

Four MLAs are just literate while five are diploma holders.

Nearly 206 MLAs are in the age group of 25 to 50 years while 190 are between 51 and 80 years.

ADR coordinator Santosh Srivastava said that the survey was conducted ahead of the Assembly elections to enable the people to know their legislators.

"Normally, we do such surveys before the elections but they are done phase wise so this time we have done it in a comprehensive manner," he said. paralysed the nation's commercial capital for three days in 2008, in which more than 160 people were killed by terrorists from Pakistan.

The security forces had launched an operation for three days and rescued 300 people from the Taj, 250 from the Trident and 60 people (members of 12 different families) from Nariman House.

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NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA

PM urges for easing Covid curbs Aus Covid caseload

IANS

governments to "step back" out of people's lives and ease Covid-19 restrictions as the vaccination coverage was improving amid the country's battle against the third wave of the pandemic.

Morrison condemned violent protests against proposed pandemic laws in the state of Victoria but said he sympathized with Australians frustrated with the ongoing restrictions, reports Xinhua news agency.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison

Canberra, November 19 (IANS): Prime Minister Scott Morrison on November 19 called for

"I completely and totally continue to denounce any violence, any threat, any intimidation," he told reporters.

"Australians have done their part.

It's now time for them to be able to step forward with their lives and for governments to step back out of their lives."

On November 19 morning, Australia reported 1,508 new locally-acquired Covid-19 cases and 11 deaths, which increased the cumulative totals to 195,624 and 1,933.

Till date, 91.2 per cent of Australians aged 16 and over have received one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine and 84.6 percent were fully inoculated, according to the Department of Health.

Latest poll reveals Morrison’s loss of popular support Canberra, November 15 (IANS): Prime Minister Scott Morrison has lost ground as the nation's preferred leader, a poll has revealed.

The latest Newspoll, which was published on November 14 night, revealed that the leader of the opposition Labor Party, Anthony Albanese, has closed the gap to Morrison, reports Xinhua news agency.

It found that 46 per cent of respondents identified Morrison as their preferred Prime Minister compared to 38 per cent for

Albanese.

It is the tightest gap between the two since March 2020 and marks a major turnaround from February when Morrison led 61-26.

The poll of 1,524 voters was taken in the wake of Morrison's appearance at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow where he committed to a 2050 net zero emissions target.

Albanese has been a fierce critic of Morrison's signature climate policy, describing it as a "scam" that lacks detail.

The Labor leader promised that he would release his own climate policy before the end of 2021.

According to Newspoll, Labor leads Morrison's coalition 53-47 on a two-party preferred basis, a slight swing in the government's favor from 54-46 at the start of October.

Thirty-eight per cent of respondents said they intend to vote Labor as their first preference at the next general election, which is due to be held

by May 2022, compared to 37 per cent for the coalition.

Aus to establish domestic violence commission Canberra, November 24 (IANS): The Australian government on November 23 announced it will establish a new commission to help end violence against women and children.

With A$22.4 million ($16 million) in funding over five years, the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission will be tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of initiatives to prevent violence and developing policy to address violence against women, reports Xinhua news agency.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), one in six women have been subjected to physical or sexual violence by a current or

former partner.

The Commission was announced shortly before the Opposition Labor Party was set to announce its plan to appoint a commissioner to coordinate domestic and sexual violence prevention if it wins the next election.

The government's commission forms part of its new national plan to reduce family, domestic and sexual violence, which will come into effect in 2022.

"The next National Plan will be an ambitious blueprint to end violence against women and children, but it must be more than words," Minister for Women Marise Payne said in a statement.

"The new Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission will have responsibility for monitoring and reporting on accountability and evaluation frameworks against the next National Plan to ensure it delivers real and tangible actions that prevent violence, intervene early and better support victim-survivors."

Under Labor's plan, A$153.4 million will be spent over the next four years on 500 workers to support women in crisis, half of whom would be based in rural and regional Australia.

Labor's family, domestic and sexual violence commissioner would report annually on the progress of stopping violence.

Aus state reveals Covid quarantine overhaul Canberra, November 15 (IANS): The state government of South Australia (SA) on November 15 announced major changes to isolation requirements for contacts of Covid-19 cases ahead of border reopening.

SA Premier Steven Marshall announced that from November 23, fully vaccinated South Australians who are deemed a close contact of a coronavirus case will only have to quarantine for seven days, reports Xinhua news agency.

Fully vaccinated casual contacts will only be required to selfisolate until they test negative for

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Covid-19.

Currently anyone deemed a contact of a positive case in SA must quarantine for 14 days regardless of their vaccination status.

"We will be very, very significantly reducing the test, trace, isolate and quarantine requirements," Marshall told reporters.

"In the past, we've had to take a pretty heavy-handed approach, quite frankly, because a single case could set off a cluster which would lock down our state."

The change will coincide with SA opening its borders to fully

vaccinated travellers from the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales and Victoria when it is expected to reach 80 per cent of over-16s fully vaccinated on November 23.

It will mark the first time since August that travellers from those regions, which were under Covid-19 lockdowns in the past months and account for more than half the Australian population, will be allowed into SA without quarantining for 14 days.

"We are going to do it in a careful and considered way. In the first instance we are only going to

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crosses 200k

Canberra, November 23 (IANS): Australia's overall Covid caseload crossed the 200,000 mark on November 23 as the country is battling an ongoing third wave of the pandemic.

With over 1,000 new cases registered recently, the country's infection tally now stands at 200,651, reports Xinhua news agency.

people succumbed to the virus, the highest single-day figure since October, taking the total death toll to 1,968.

Till date, 91.7 per cent of Australians aged 16 and over have received one vaccine dose and 85.5 percent were fully inoculated, according to the latest data released by the Department of Health.

Also in the same period, 21 more

Australia hits 90% milestone of 1st Covid vax dose Canberra, November 12 (IANS): Australia has hit a new Covid-19 vaccination milestone, with 90 per cent of the people aged 16 and over having received one dose of a jab, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on November 12.

Speaking to the media, he said that every state and territory was on track to hit the 80 per cent fully vaccination target by the end of 2021, a mark already achieved in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Victoria and New South Wales, all of which endured strict lockdowns between August and October, reports Xinhua news agency.

"We are going to have one of the highest vaccination rates in the world. That goes with having one of the best records in the world on saving lives," Morrison said.

Anticipating the 90 per cent milestone, Health Minister Greg Hunt on November 11 described it as an "extraordinary" achievement.

Australia on November 12 reported more than 1,400 new locally-acquired Covid-19 infections, which increased the overall caseload to 187,041.

The death toll then stood at 1,873.

Coronavirus restrictions in Australia's capital Canberra were further eased on November 12, moving to baseline-level restrictions that are expected to stay in place across summer.

With Australia gradually reopening its international borders, Finance Minister Simon Birmingham said international students would be able to enter every state without quarantining by the end of the year.

"We want to move through these stages of reopening international borders as quickly as we can," he told Sky News.

"We hope to see movement towards the end of the year, and international students, especially in big states, should be looking forward to the start of the next semester."

Travelling Australians need not pay for Covid tests

IANS

Canberra, November 24 (IANS): Health Minister Greg Hunt on November 24 confirmed that interstate travelers will not have to pay for their mandatory Covid-19 tests.

Hunt said on November 24 that federal and state and territory governments will continue to fund polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests on a 50-50 basis, reports Xinhua news agency.

It comes after the Queensland government declared that travellers would be required to pay A$150 ($108) for a mandatory PCR test within 72 hours of arrival when the state reopens its borders to the pandemichit Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Victoria state and New have those people who are fully vaccinated able to come into South Australia," Marshall said.

"We know this is going to be a huge relief for families, for businesses, those state borders have been extraordinarily punishing."

Health Minister Greg Hunt

South Wales state in December.

Hunt told Nine Network television that the state government has "wavered" on the funding agreement after significant backlash.

"We haven't changed anything," he said.

On Monday morning, Australia reported 1,035 new locallyacquired Covid-19 cases, all of which were in the ACT, NSW and Victoria with six deaths, as the country continues to battle the third wave of COVID-19 infections.

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La Nina alert issued for east Australia Aus could face flu epidemic IANS

few years.

Extreme weather expert Milton Speer from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) told Xinhua the announcement was of little surprise given the type of weather Australia's eastern states had already been experiencing.

Canberra, November 23 (IANS): Australia's Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) announced on November 23 that a La Nina event has established in the tropical Pacific, spelling a stormy summer for much of the country’s east.

Parts of the states of New South Wales (NSW), Queensland and Victoria have already experienced heavy rains and flooding, with the BoM announcing that October rain levels were 8 per cent above normal levels.

The BoM's climate modelling suggested that the event would likely last through to the beginning of Australia's autumn in March, reports Xinhua news agency.

Further to this, the BoM recorded its first tropical cyclone, Cyclone Paddy, on November 23 morning off the coast of Christmas Island above Australia's northwest coast.

Meaning "the girl" in Spanish, La Nina is a complex weather phenomenon that occurs every

Speer told Xinhua that higher ocean surface temperatures to Australia's north had been a strong sign of the coming event.

"Sea surface temperatures, right across the top of Australia have been pretty anomalous."

Speer said that residents across Queensland and NSW should brace for consistent, heavy rain and storms throughout the summer.

He also said rising temperatures due to global warming could see such weather events become even more extreme in Australia.

"One of the factors in climate change is the warming up of the oceans and particularly in the tropical Equatorial areas. So there just seems to be more available moisture."

Australia's last major La Nina event was between the summers of 2010 and 2012 and resulted in some of the wettest years ever recorded and widespread flooding.

Australian scientists embark on voyage to unravel secrets of earthquakes IANS

Canberra, November 23 (IANS): Researchers from Australian National University (ANU) have embarked on a voyage to unlock the secrets of the Earth's inner layers.

The ANU-led team on November 10 departed on a threeweek mission to retrieve 27 seismometers -- instruments that record the motion of the ground during earthquakes -- from the ocean floor near Macquarie Island in the Southern Ocean, Xinhua news agency reported.

The instruments were deployed in October 2020 pointing at the Earth's center and have been collecting data on extreme underwater earthquakes.

Researchers are hopeful that the data will help them better understand the inner layers of the Earth and what causes underwater earthquakes and tsunamis.

"It's in an area where the Australian plate meets the Pacific plate, but it's not known as an active subduction zone, so these earthquakes are still a mystery to us," Chief scientist Hrvoje Tkalcic from ANU's Research School of Earth Sciences said in a media release on November 22.

"Scientifically, the most exciting pay-off of this project may be that it could help us add missing pieces to one of the biggest puzzles in plate tectonics -- how subduction begins.

"Researchers have grappled with this question for decades, probing active and extinct subduction zones around the world for hints, though the picture remains murky."

However, the team must first recover the devices from depths

of up to 5,500 meters on the Macquarie Ridge -- a slope steeper than any mountain on the Earth's surface.

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) commissioned New Zealand research vessel RV Tangaroa for the 24-day voyage.

Tkalcic said it could take up to six hours to retrieve a single seismometer and another two hours to ascend back to the surface.

"The instruments have been surrounding Macquarie Island, a region in the Southern Ocean's Furious Fifties latitudes renowned for its extreme seas and weather," he said.

"The weather was often merciless during our instrument deployments. We faced galestrength winds and waves that forced us to 'heave-to' or shelter in the lee of Macquarie Island for roughly 40 percent of our time in the study area."

Retail sales surge in Australia Canberra, November 16 (IANS): Retail sales in Australia jumped 4.2 per cent in October 2021 compared with the previous year, and a 10.1 percent spike from the same time before the Covid-19 pandemic in 2019, according to official figures released on November 16.

The figures, released by Australian Retailers Association (ARA), were based on data which records online and in-store credit payments, reports Xinhua news agency.

Despite the overall rebound, retail sales growth has staggered in the cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra as they only exited their prolonged lockdowns in mid-tolate October.

Paul Zahra, CEO of the ARA, said

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this likely means the full extent of the return to retail in these cities has yet to be realized.

"There's a lot of pent-up demand in those locations with consumers back out in droves, shopping and supporting their local businesses," said Zahra.

He said that consumer forecasts predict as much as A$5.4 billion ($4 billion) would be spent during Australia's "Black Friday" and "Cyber Monday" shopping events, which normally begins at the end of November.

Across retail industries, department stores and food retailing, such as cafes and restaurants, have been hardest hit by the pandemic shutdowns.

Department stores saw a 5.6 per cent drop in growth from the

same time last year, and food retailing a 1 percent drop.

The clear winner, unsurprisingly, has been online retail which, according to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), has broken all-time records of growth every month since June 2021, the same time Sydney entered its most recent lockdown.

Zahra said with "the worst of Covid-19 now behind us" retailers and shoppers are expected to begin ramping up activity, especially as they head into the Christmas season.

"Consumer sentiment is upbeat and we're set for a positive Christmas, despite the numerous Covid-19 setbacks in 2021," she added.

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as borders reopen: Expert Canberra, November 22 (IANS): A leading infectious expert on November 22 warned that Australia could face a flu epidemic as it opens its international borders.

The report by Sheena Sullivan from the University of Melbourne, which was published in the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA), showed that strict public health measures targeting Covid-19 have effectively eliminated all local transmission of influenza strains in Australia over the last 19 months, reports Xinhua news agency.

"As the influenza incubation period, infectious period, and serial interval are short, the current duration of hotel quarantine (14 days) has prevented people (from) leaving quarantine while still infectious," wrote Sullivan.

In 2017, Australia experienced a particularly severe flu season.

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed that over the year more than 250,000 people contracted the strain and 1,255 died.

Now, as Australia gradually reopens to the rest of the world, Sheena said there is a looming threat of an "out-of-season" flu outbreak.

"The main thing to say is that just because it's not winter, we shouldn't expect not to see a flu

epidemic," she told Xinhua.

She said common flu may pose more of a threat due to Australians' lack of exposure to new strains and a drop-off in flu vaccination rates over the last two years.

She suggested particular attention would need to be paid to how entering strains affect different age groups, for example, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which in adults shows minimal symptoms but leads to high hospitalisation rates in young kids.

"During outbreaks of RSV, there were much higher than expected rates of hospitalisation in very young children, and that was in the summertime."

She believed, however, that many health measures adopted by the public during the Covid-19 pandemic could prompt a cultural shift in Australia, such as mask wearing and social distancing, that would help prevent infectious disease transmission in the future.

She said capacity for testing developed during the pandemic could also serve as an early warning system for problematic flu outbreaks.

"When we start seeing these signals of increased activity for these other viruses, hospitals can be in a bit more heightened awareness about testing."

International students return as Australia opens border to Singapore IANS

Canberra, November 22 (IANS): The first contingent of international students has arrived in Australia under its travel bubble with Singapore.

Travellers fully vaccinated against Covid-19 who depart from Singapore can enter Australia without quarantining for the first time since March 2020, when the pandemic first broke out, reports Xinhua news agency.

Two flights of international students landed in Sydney and Melbourne on November 21, the first batch of international students to arrive in Australia since November 2020, according to Catriona Jackson, chief executive of Universities Australia.

The initial batch will be followed by another 500 students that will arrive in December.

"Universities have worked closely with government and health authorities for more than 18 months on plans to safely welcome back our international friends," Jackson said in a statement on November 21, adding that around 130,000 international students remain outside Australia.

"We're confident that today's arrivals are just the first of many to return, at scale, for the start of

the first semester next year."

Australia's lucrative international education industry was crippled by the country's strict border closure in response to the pandemic.

Universities lost 4.9 per cent of their revenue, an estimated A$1.8 billion ($1.3 billion ) in 2020 and cut 17,000 jobs.

As of November 22 morning, Australia has registered a total of 199,659 Covid-19 cases and 1,948 deaths.

So far, 91.5 per cent of Australians aged 16 and over have received one vaccine dose and 85.1 percent were fully inoculated against the virus, according to the Department of Health.

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NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA

PM Morrison assures visa holders, workers and international students to be allowed to enter from December 1 Nearly two years after Australia closed its borders to curb the onslaught of the Covid-19 virus, the country is all set to open its borders and welcome valid visa holders, workers and foreign students from December 1.

T

he eagerly awaited news of fully vaccinated visa holders no longer needing to apply for travel exemption and once again becoming eligible to enter Australia has finally been delivered by Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Not only Indians, but also people from Japan and South Korea are eligible to travel to the country under the same decision.

Travel arrangements with both the countries were already made earlier in November.

Hailing the much-awaited step as an integral part of Australia’s recovery strategy in the aftermath of the Covid-19 induced lockdown, Morrison said that

Australia is looking forward to the return of skilled workers and international students and once it happens, it will be a noteworthy milestone in Australia’s pathway leading back to normalcy and would be a testimony to what Australia has been able to achieve so far and what it can potentially.

He also acknowledged that their return is all the more eagerly awaited as it would give a much needed push to the slumbering national economy which needs to be kickstarted.

The eligible visa types comprising humanitarian, student, economic, temporary and provisional family visas will permit approximately

233,000 visa holders to come back to Australia.

The government is also working on permitting tourist visa holders to come to the country and is optimistic about announcing a confirmed date soon. When this happens, more than one million tourists will be arriving at the Australian shores.

Australia had recommenced foreign travel in November itself but hitherto only citizens, permanent residents and their families were able to travel without going into quarantine.

Morrison attributes the successful national vaccination program,

Australia strengthening tech partnership with India to its diaspora and alumni communities.

Through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, India and Australia are at the forefront of determining the design, development and use of emerging technologies. Australia’s existing Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership and its bilateral grants program were a significant first step in strengthening these ties.

As the Prime Minister said at the Bengaluru Tech Summit, we are elevating this cooperation even further. The Centre of Excellence for Critical and Emerging Technology Policy will bring together Australian and Indian technologists, policy practitioners, academics, researchers and thought leaders. It is a multi-stakeholder initiative that will help guide the responsible development and use of critical technologies.

A

ustralia is strengthening its technology partnership with India through the establishment of a new Consulate-General in Bengaluru and a Centre of Excellence for Critical and Emerging Technology Policy, also to be based in India.

Bengaluru is the world’s fitsthlargest technology cluster, and home to a third of India’s unicorn companies. Bengaluru and its vibrant business community will play a determinative role in India’s rise as a technological superpower. It is home to significant biotech, aerospace and defence industries, a thriving start-up ecosystem, India’s national space agency as well as leading education and research institutions.

The new Consulate-General will

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focus on deepening Australia’s ties to India’s vibrant innovators, technologists and entrepreneurs.

It will support Australian businesses in one of the world’s most important commercial centres. Half of the next billion internet users are projected to be in India, and India’s digital economy, centred on Bengaluru, is set to grow to US$1 trillion by 2025.

The Consulate-General will expand Australia’s diplomatic presence in India to five diplomatic posts, further to its High Commission in New Delhi and Consulates-General in Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata, deepening the engagement with Indian governments at all levels. This will promote engagement with India’s southern states and Australia’s outreach

It will promote stronger investment opportunities and cutting-edge innovation in cyber, critical and emerging technologies. It will amplify Australia’s and India’s policy impact globally, while visiting fellows from around the IndoPacific will broaden the Centre’s influence.

The Centre of Excellence is among the flagship initiatives of Australia’s new Action Plan for Critical Technologies, and an important part of delivering on Australia’s strategy for protecting and promoting technologies, the Blueprint for Critical Technologies. It will provide a practical platform for Australia and India to work together to shape technology governance that aligns with its values and supports an open, inclusive and resilient Indo-Pacific.

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Prime Minister Scott Morrison

which has led to 85 percent Australians becoming fully vaccinated, for the country’s

decision to discontinue with border restrictions.

Australia not going back to lockdowns in wake of Omicron variant: PM Canberra, Nov 30 (IANS): Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has declared that he will not allow the country to go back into lockdown in response to the Omicron variant of Covid-19.

Morrison on Tuesday afternoon met state and territory leaders to discuss the national response to the new variant of concern.

Prior to the meeting, Morrison said that federal, state and territory governments would be cautious about Omicron but ruled out a return to strict stay-athome restrictions, Xinhua news agency reported.

He said he would use the national cabinet meeting to ask state and territory leaders to hold their nerve and keep domestic borders open in the lead-up to Christmas.

"We're not going back to lockdowns. None of us want that," he told reporters in Canberra on Tuesday.

"What we did last night was protecting against that by having a sensible pause and to keep proceeding with where we are now and to further assess that information so we can move forward with confidence."

Earlier on Tuesday, Health Minister Greg Hunt said that the federal government's

"overwhelming view" is that the Omicron variant is "manageable."

As of Tuesday, six cases of the new variant have been confirmed in Australia.

On Tuesday morning, Australia reported more than 1,100 new Covid-19 cases and nine deaths as the country continues to battle the third wave of infections.

The majority of new cases were in Victoria, the country's second-most populous state with Melbourne as the capital city, where 918 cases and six deaths were reported.

As of Monday, 92.4 per cent of Australians aged 16 and above had received one vaccine dose and 87 per cent had their second dose, according to the Health Department.

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Queensland minister issues statement on safe recommencement of domestic travel Wikipedia

negative PCR test.

The Commonwealth Government also has the option subsidise this important PCR test via Medicare with the stroke of a pen.

3. Mandatory vaccination requirement for key staff: The Queensland Government recently announced a number of measures that would require all staff and patrons to be vaccinated at a range of businesses and venues.

Brisbane, 23 November: As Queensland looks forward to a bumper summer holiday period, it is important that our border reopens to southern hotspots as safely as possible. In planning for this, there are number of important points that industry and the general public should be aware of: 1. Temporary PCR testing requirement This temporary PCR testing requirement is only in place for domestic travel from hotspots until 90% of eligible Queenslanders have received a double dose of vaccination.

Consistent with other jurisdictions around Australia, PCR tests are an important

safeguard in keeping Queenslanders safe as borders reopen. Indeed it is the same test that the Commonwealth requires for travellers arriving into Australia.

Once 90% of the eligible Queensland population is fully vaccinated, domestic travellers from hotspots who are fully vaccinated will not require a PCR test.

2. Proof of PCR test The Queensland Government will continue to accept proof of a negative PCR test via text message or other digital means.

This is aimed at making travel as seamless as possible and will forgo the need for travellers to obtain formal documentation of a

It is important to note that, regardless of how early Queensland may hit the 80% double dose vaccination rate, these measures will commence from 17 December 2021. This provides important certainty so businesses and staff can plan accordingly.

As with every decision taken throughout the pandemic, all of these safeguards have been put in place in accordance with the Chief Health Officer’s advice.

Tourism operators and community leaders are encouraged to continue promoting vaccination so that Queensland can enjoy a bumper holiday period with a bumper 90% double dose vaccination rate.

Minister for Tourism, Innovation and Sport and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympics and Paralympics Sport and Engagement Stirling Hinchliffe

Director-General appointed to lead the Department of Education Pulse +IT

Director-General positions with the Australian Capital Territory Government’s Community Services and Health Directorates.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk accepted the recommendation of the independent recruitment panel and welcomed Mr De’Ath to the chief executive role.

“Mr De’Ath comes highly recommended, and I am pleased someone with his skill and experience will be leading one of our most critical departments, which has responsibility for our world class education system,” she said.

Brisbane, 26 November: Mr Michael De’Ath, an accomplished senior executive, has been appointed as the new DirectorGeneral of Queensland’s Department of Education, following an open merit recruitment process.

Mr De’Ath has over 20 years of public sector leadership with extensive experience in education as a teacher, school principal,

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Regional Director and Deputy Secretary.

Throughout Mr De’Ath’s career he has delivered outcomes for Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory and New Zealand across a variety of portfolios, including education, community services and health. He is a former Deputy Secretary with Victoria’s Department of Health and Human Services and has held

Minister for Education, Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Racing, the Honourable Grace Grace said she is excited by Mr De’Ath’s appointment and welcomes the breadth of experience he will bring to the education, industrial relations and racing portfolios.

“I look forward to working with Mr De’Ath, particularly in continuing to deliver an education system that gives all children a great start and engages young people in high quality learning, no matter where they live.”

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NEWS FROM QUEENSLAND

If it’s flooded, forget it Brisbane, 26 November: The message is clear – if it’s flooded, forget it.

“The bravest thing a driver can do is back away from floodwaters,” he said.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey urged drivers to use common sense when driving during wet weather, with more rain predicted this weekend.

“It’s easy to assume the water will be shallow, but waters can rise quickly and move swiftly.

“Flood waters can be deceptive, with hidden dangers below the surface, so it’s not worth risking it just to get home or to work faster,” Mr Bailey said.

“Tragically, we have already seen one person lose their life this week to flood waters.

“Parts of Brisbane have seen daily rainfalls of up to 120 mm this week and across the state, the story is the same – Bundaberg alone has had more than 114mm of rain since 9am yesterday.

“The Bureau of Meteorology has reported a La Nina weather event off the coast, so it is expected to be a very wet Summer.

“This brings a higher risk of tropical cyclones and flood inducing rains.

“Drivers need to pay attention and always drive to the conditions.”

Mr Bailey said many Queenslanders still tempt fate when driving through floodwaters.

“We want every Queenslander to make it home today, tomorrow and every day so if it’s flooded, forget it.”

Police Minister Mark Ryan said the rapidly approaching summer was shaping up as a particularly challenging one.

“All the expert advice points to plenty of wet weather and that means challenging road conditions,” Mr Ryan said.

“It’s up to everyone to take responsibility for road safety.

“If everyone makes good decisions, makes sensible decisions, and treats hazardous conditions with the right level of caution, then we can save lives and keep people safe.

“Road trauma is preventable.

“It’s up to all of us to treat being on the road, no matter the conditions, with the respect and good sense that it demands.”

For storm-related assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or download the SES Assistance QLD app.

In a life-threatening situation, always call Triple Zero (000).

Central Queensland set to hit important vax milestone Brisbane, 23 November: Central Queensland is set to hit 100,000 COVID vaccination doses today as the region continues to get ready for the state’s borders to open.

The impending milestone comes as Palaszczuk Ministers continue their blitz across Queensland to encourage more Queenslanders to get vaccinated.

Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, and Minister for Water Glenn Butcher was in Rockhampton today to encourage Central Queenslanders to keep up the good work.

“As of late yesterday, Central Queensland was on 99,301 doses delivered, we could very well hit the 100,000 doses milestone today,” Minister Butcher said.

“But we can’t be complacent, there’s just weeks to go until our border reopens – which means time is running out to get vaccinated.

“Queenslanders have done the hard yards and they will soon be rewarded with greater freedoms to flow for people who have been vaccinated.

“So, I want to get the message out - vaccines are safe, effective and our best defence against COVID-19.

“It’s just so important that people in regional Queensland are fully vaccinated to protect themselves, their family, friends and community.

Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said the people of Rocky are doing a great job.

“The people of Rocky are on the right track, but we can’t let up now,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“Rockhampton has hit the 82.1 per cent mark for first doses, and 66.4 per cent for second doses.

“I’d urge anyone who is still having doubts to go to the Queensland Health website https://www.qld.gov.au/health/ conditions/health-alerts/ coronavirus-covid-19 where there is a wealth of information about the vaccines’ benefits and safety.

“There are huge health and economic benefits to getting vaccinated – and we all need to make sure our communities are protected.”

The Rockhampton Community Vaccination Hub is open 7-daysa-week from 9am to 4pm.

Vax stats for Central Queensland • 99,301 doses delivered (up until November 22) • 35,762 doses delivered at the Rockhampton Community Vaccination Hub (up until November 21) • Rockhampton record day of 722 doses delivered on November 11 • Gladstone record of 573 doses delivered on November 13

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INDIA NEWS

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NEWS FROM QUEENSLAND

Hydrogen jobs of the future coming to Springfield Brisbane, 26 November: In a further boost to Queensland’s growing hydrogen industry, Greater Springfield will soon be home to Australia’s first hydrogen fuel cell manufacturing facility.

Australian energy technology company LAVO Hydrogen Technology Limited will establish the $15 million facility, backed by the Palaszczuk Government’s Invested in Queensland program, part of the $3.34 billion Queensland Jobs Fund.

Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said construction of the new facility will begin in early 2022 and is expected to be delivered by the end of the year.

“This is one of the first projects to receive support through our Invested in Queensland program, and the jobs to come from this are significant,” Mr Dick said.

“Up to 200 construction jobs will be created over the next 12 months, and once fuel cell production ramps up there will be almost 170 operational jobs supported here by 2026.

“The fuel cells will be used in the world’s first hydrogen energy storage system for homes and businesses, developed in Australia

by LAVO and the University of New South Wales.

“LAVO’s hydrogen technology has generated considerable customer interest here in Australia and overseas, and this new facility will allow the company to export Queensland-made products to the world.”

The LAVO HESS (Hydrogen Energy Storage System) is an integrated hybrid hydrogen battery that can be combined with rooftop solar to store 40kWh of electricity – enough energy to

Manufacture’s monthly

power a typical household for two days.

Mr Dick said partnering with companies like LAVO is part of the government’s COVID recovery plan to propel Queensland’s next phase of economic growth.

“By supporting this sort of innovation and unlocking greater private investment, we expect to create 5000 jobs over the life of the Invested in Queensland program,” he said.

“We welcome LAVO to Queensland, and the new generation of employment opportunities this hydrogen manufacturing facility will bring to our state.”

Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said today’s announcement is a major step towards the development of an economically sustainable and competitive hydrogen industry in Queensland.

“With groundbreaking projects like this and the recent announcement by Fortescue Future Industries to establish one of the world’s largest hydrogen equipment manufacturing facilities in Gladstone, Queensland is on track to become a global hydrogen superpower,” Mr de Brenni said.

Trade and Investment Queensland has also been working with LAVO for the past two years, assisting in early negotiations to attract the company to Queensland.

CEO and Executive Director of LAVO Alan Yu said the company is excited to be manufacturing the fuel cells here in Australia under a joint venture agreement with Netherlands-based Nedstack, developer of the fuel cells.

“Through our research and

development, we are taking existing fuel cell technology and introducing integrated solutions to make hydrogen possible for everyday use and for a much wider audience,” Mr Yu said.

“We will be working to maximise the use of local suppliers in the manufacturing process and will be supplying both domestic and international markets across the residential, offgrid, telecommunications and commercial sectors.

“The Queensland Government’s strong commitment to the development of the hydrogen industry really attracted us here.

“Support we’ve received from Springfield City Group was also a key factor to locate our manufacturing facility to Queensland.”

Under its net zero energy strategy by 2038, Greater Springfield aspires to produce more energy than it can consume.

Springfield City Group Chairman Maha Sinnathamby said the focus on efficient and sustainable energy production, storage and integration within the community had never been more important

for Australia, and for Springfield City.

We can be an ongoing exemplar for others to follow,” Mr Sinnathamby said.

“The population of Springfield City is expected to triple to more than 130,000 over the next two decades, so there’s a responsibility to our residents both now and into the future to get this right.”

While LAVO’s current focus is on establishing the fuel cell facility, the company is also proposing to develop more advanced manufacturing capabilities in Queensland by 2024.

This includes the assembly of additional hydrogen-based powered units and other hydrogen components such as electrolysers and hydride vessel production.

Member for Jordan and Assistant Minister for Treasury Charis Mullen said LAVO’s decision was a vote of confidence in the region and showed the settings were right for industry and business to flourish.

“This is an Australian-first

and could be one of the largest hydrogen fuel cell facilities in the southern hemisphere, so it’s great news for workers and our community,” Ms Mullen said.

“And with LAVO planning to grow its Springfield operations once established, there’s the potential for hundreds of additional jobs to be created locally, which is really exciting.”

Assistant Minister for Hydrogen Development Lance McCallum said the bourgeoning industry presented huge prospects for the state.

“Local hydrogen development means more local jobs, and our government is proud to be leading the charge in this space,” Mr McCallum said.

The Invested in Queensland program forms part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $3.34 billion Queensland Jobs Fund.

Bringing together the state government’s flagship industry development and investment programs, the fund is designed to boost Queensland’s industry footprint, create jobs and drive COVID economic recovery.

Olympian Taliqua Clancy gets on board to ride Wave of Change Brisbane, 26 November: Tokyo Olympic silver medallist and proud First Nations beach volleyballer, Taliqua Clancy, is the official ambassador for the Wave of Change program, a joint environmental education program between Containers for Change and Plastic Oceans Australasia.

Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon has welcomed Ms Clancy’s involvement in the program.

“We know that Taliqua is a winner on the court and is a passionate supporter of clean oceans and beaches – her strong connection to young Queenslanders makes her perfect for this role as we go for gold in cleaning up and protecting our beaches and environment,” Minister Scanlon said.

“In partnership with Plastic Oceans Australasia – Containers for Change will deliver primary school curriculum modules on plastic reduction and pollution to

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300 primary schools in 2022.

“The program will also support schools’ container recycling fundraising efforts by providing collection infrastructure and resources that maximise containers collected and refunds received.”

Taliqua Clancy said the program would drive change by influencing students’ daily habits and inspiring others to join them.

“Playing volleyball on beaches around the world has made me passionate about keeping them, and our oceans, free of plastic and waste so that we can all enjoy them,” Ms Clancy said.

“Sharing storylines about our environment is so important for the future sustainability of our beaches, beautiful coastline, and waterways in Queensland and I am excited to share my passion for the environment with tomorrow’s generation of Queenslanders.”

The Wave of Change program encourages schools to be focussed

on building awareness of plastic pollution and participating in Containers for Change and will provide schools with bags and bins for containers, connection to operators who can collect recyclables and a federally approved curriculum ready to go.

Media Statesman

Education Minister Grace Grace said Queensland school students were more environmentally aware than any previous generation.

“I have no doubt the Waves of Change program will be incredibly successful because our students care about the damage plastic waste and other pollutants can do to Queensland’s unique ecosystem,” Minister Grace said.

“This program will provide the skills to back up the enthusiasm they already have for protecting the environment.”

Executive Director of Plastic Oceans Australasia Ricki Hersburgh said: “We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with the Containers for Change scheme and know that initiatives

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such as these demonstrate the importance of long-term systemic change.

reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in our oceans in future generations.”

“Our comprehensive educational school resources will help young people understand the dire impacts of plastic in the natural environment for wildlife and human alike, which is vital in

Five billion containers have now been recycled since Containers for Change was introduced in Queensland with nearly 800 full time equivalent jobs created.

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NEWS FROM QUEENSLAND

CQ University Australia to collaborate with O.P. Jindal Global University, India Rockhampton, November 24: CQUniversity Australia and O.P. Jindal Global University ( JGU), India, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the two universities provide education pathways for students in both countries.

“The MoU is just the first step in developing a deeper and trusted partnership where we can work together to provide innovative solutions for students to share and create new knowledge,” CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Nick Klomp said.

“We’ve been working in India for a long time and this partnership with O.P. Jindal Global University will give us the opportunity to collaborate and establish a larger presence in India that provides terrific outcomes for students.

“Jindal Global University’s values align with CQUniversity’s, especially in providing accessible education pathways for students and we look forward to working with such a highly regarded institution well into the future.”

of Australian students in India as part of the New Colombo Plan (NCP) and Professor Klomp said the partnership with CQUniversity would provide opportunities for students at both institutions to study in each other’s country.

“This collaboration will see us provide different opportunities for our students to experience studying in both countries, giving them the chance to study at two world-recognised universities in the one degree.”

The Founding Vice-Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, Professor (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, welcomed the new development and said: “We are delighted to sign an MoU with CQUniversity, in a partnership that will focus on creating student mobility opportunities and research collaborations between our two universities".

“Students and faculty from O.P. Jindal Global University will be delighted to visit CQUniversity’s campuses in Australia, and we look forward to welcoming Australian students and colleagues to visit us in India,”

CQUniversity and O.P. Jindal Global University will work together to provide education pathways for students in both Australia and in India Mr Jim Varghese

Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar said.

“JGU is committed to building stronger ties between Australia and India, and our partnership with CQUniversity is an important step towards furthering this goal.”

The MoU signing occurred as part of an Australia India Business Council (AIBC) education roundtable held in Brisbane recently.

Prof. Shaun Star

QPS recruiting campaign shows great police are made for it JGU is one of the largest hosts

Brisbane, 23 Nov: Police Minister Mark Ryan joined Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll and Queensland Police Union President, Ian Leavers, at the launch of a new Queensland Police Service (QPS) recruiting campaign - You’re Made For It.

The campaign aims to help people identify that their personal value, derived from life, growth and career experience, has shaped them in a way that enables them to be a great officer in the QPS. Commissioner Carroll said the Service was recruiting real experience to make a real difference.

“The QPS is looking for applicants with diverse backgrounds and life experience which reflects the community we serve. You need integrity, community values, professionalism and show respect and fairness at all times,” she said.

“I’ve heard numerous times, applicants say that they have always wanted to be a police officer, that they were ‘born’ to join.

“As a Service we realise that, often, it’s what’s on the inside that makes an incredible officer.

“Every bit of adversity you’ve

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overcome makes an impact. Every challenge, every tight spot. From your proudest moments, to your toughest times, in this line of work, your life experiences are your greatest assets.”

The serious incident left her with severe injuries. She overcame these injuries, including learning how to speak and write again and made it through the recruitment process.

The launch of the campaign introduced four serving police officers across Queensland, each with a diverse story to tell.

Constable Laurie Bateman, a First Nations officer based in Cunnamulla, spent 20 years as a sheep shearer. Once he started training disengaged First Nations youth the art of shearing, he realised how much he liked to help and give back to his community. He joined the Service as a Police Liaison Officer before applying and being inducted as an officer.

Officer in Charge of Gin Gin Police Station Sergeant Sharon Morgan found herself trapped in a violent and abusive relationship for seven years, for some of this time she was also a police recruit. She now channels her own experience into providing understanding and support for other victims of domestic and family violence.

Constable Ethan Sorby grew up heavily exposed to drug addiction and violence. Tragically, he lost his brother and sister in a traffic crash related to his parents’ addiction. He is now part of the Logan Youth Co-Responder Unit after being shown compassion from a police officer which led him to consider a career with the QPS. Senior Constable Danielle Loftus was hit by a car at the age of 10 while walking home from school.

Minister Ryan said the collective experiences of every police officer reflects a truly diverse Queensland Police Service made up of dedicated officers doing extraordinary work.

“I’ve met many great and truly inspirational police officers over the years and I’ve often quietly asked what drew them to a career in policing.

“I learnt that many sons and daughters had followed in their parents’ footsteps and chose to become part of the broader police family. Some spoke of police officers who were their

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role models when they were young. Others spoke of their life experiences and how that shaped their decision to embark on a career in policing.

“Their stories were inspiring and humbling, and they resonated deeply with me because, irrespective of their reasons, each and every one of those officers shared the same vision - to protect the community they served.

“It is my hope that this new campaign will continue to attract great recruits who will go on to become great police officers,” Minister Ryan said.

The Queensland Government is funding the delivery of an additional 2,025 police personnel by 2025 to meet the future needs

Twitter

of policing across the state.

Queensland Police Union President Ian Leavers said that there has never been a better time to step forward and make an application to join the QPS. “Policing isn’t a profession to step into lightly. You will need strength of character and resilience to deal with what you will encounter when serving the community.”

“Our Union is proud to have successfully advocated for the extra police personnel that this campaign will help attract and we will continue to advocate and support those officers through the tough times this job demands.”

To take the first step towards a dynamic and rewarding career, apply now at policerecruit.com. au.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Victoria makes Australia’s first mRNA vaccine Geelong Arts Centre to be Australia’s largest regional arts centre candidate Melbourne, November 26: The theatre with more than 250 seats Melbourne, November 30: Victorian scientists and manufacturers have created Australia’s first mRNA COVID-19 vaccine candidate – Australia’s first ever mRNA drug product – in just five months, enabling clinical trials to begin in the new year.

Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford today announced 450 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine candidate have been produced in Boronia, enabling 150 people to take part in Phase 1 clinical trials run by the Doherty Institute, with results expected later in 2022.

The Andrews Labor Government invested $5 million to enable manufacture of the vaccine candidate, with dedicated equipment shipped to manufacturer IDT Australia from Canada. The machine processed nanoparticles into final liquid drug form, sterilised the product and filled vials with mRNA vaccine. Victoria is one of the few places in the world with

the capability to develop and manufacture mRNA therapeutics and vaccines and the mRNAbased vaccine breakthrough demonstrates Victoria’s leadership in the mRNA sector.

The project has been led by mRNA Victoria in partnership with Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS), the Doherty Institute and IDT Australia – a landmark collaboration between Victoria’s renowned medical research and manufacturing sectors. The Labor Government established mRNA Victoria to drive the establishment of a sovereign mRNA manufacturing industry and earlier this year supported

a number of proposals from Victorian industry and consortia as part of the Commonwealth’s Approach to Market (ATM) on mRNA manufacturing capability.

Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford said, “This is an Australian first that confirms Victoria as a leader in mRNA therapeutics and manufacturing – it is an incredible achievement to have made an mRNA vaccine candidate that is ready for clinical trials.”“We’re serious about developing our mRNA manufacturing capacity and doing it quickly as we can, because it will save lives.”

Bold new agenda for innovation unveiled Melbourne, November 29: A bold new agenda to keep Victoria at the forefront of innovation, drive the creation of new industries and support jobs for future generations has been unveiled by the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford today launched the Innovation Statement detailing the plans and investments to propel the state forward.

The ambitious plan builds on existing commitments with a new blueprint to turbocharge Victoria’s startup ecosystem, grow business and innovation precincts, develop homegrown talent, and commercialise world-leading research – keeping Victoria at the cutting edge.

Front and centre of the agenda is the landmark $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund, which will bridge the gap between discovery and commercialisation, mobilise innovation in key

areas such as health and life sciences, agri-food, advanced manufacturing, clean economy and digital technologies.

Health and medical research is another focus with investments totalling $590 million committed in the past year alone, including up to $400 million for a new Australian Institute of Infectious Disease to lead the fight against future pandemics, and an additional $50 million to spearhead local manufacturing of mRNA vaccines.

The Labor Government is fostering the big ideas of entrepreneurs and supporting home-grown startups to scale up while also building a robust investor landscape to help more Victorian innovators take their ideas global. The state’s startup agency, Launch Vic, is leading the way with programs such as the the $10 million Alice Anderson Fund helping female founders access early-stage funding,

and the $60.5 million Victorian Startup Capital Fund injecting more money into local startups.

The Government’s significant investment is building Victoria’s innovation capabilities, increasing competitiveness and attracting national and international investors. Priority initiatives like the $64 million Digital Jobs program are addressing the digital skills shortage by training mid-career Victorians for in-demand digital roles, while the $550 million Connecting Victoria program is helping businesses take advantage of digital opportunities with reliable, better value broadband across the state. The Innovation Statement showcases Victoria’s impressive history of classleading innovations and modern inventions making their mark around the world, and celebrates and elevates stories from across the Victorian innovation community.

Study Melbourne Hubs to open in Vietnam and Malaysia Melbourne, November 23: New Study Melbourne Hubs opening in coming weeks in Vietnam and Malaysia will boost Victoria’s connections with overseas students and promote our leadership in international educational technology and innovation.

The Study Hubs in Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur will provide international students who are offshore with support and study facilities and promote Melbourne and Victoria to prospective students. The Study Hub in Kuala Lumpur opens today with Ho Chi Minh City’s Study Hub opening on 1 December. The hubs were announced as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $33.4 million International

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Education Short Term Recovery Plan, with additional funding provided in the Victorian Budget 2021/22.

Victoria is a popular study destination for students from Vietnam and Malaysia, with around 8,800 Vietnamese students and 7,700 Malaysian students enrolled in Victorian institutions. About a quarter of these students are currently offshore with the first overseas students expected to return to Victoria from 1 December.

The Study Hubs will provide networking events and activities, access to support services and programs and information about Melbourne and Victorian institutions for prospective students.Securing trade,

investment and partnership opportunities in edtech is also a core focus of the Study Hubs as they bring together edtech companies, investors, researchers and education providers in the search for new, high-quality edtech solutions for the South East Asia region.

Victoria is the only Australian state or territory to provide its international students with offshore Study Hubs, with its inaugural hub in Shanghai launched in April this year. Study Melbourne also operates a virtual hub in India, with plans to open a physical space in Bangalore.

Growing Study Melbourne’s international footprint will help rebuild and revitalise the international education market.

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new Geelong Arts Centre will become the country’s biggest regional arts centre, with new designs revealing state-of-theart facilities and two flexible performance spaces to host local, national and international performers. Premier Daniel Andrews today visited Geelong to unveil designs for the $140 million Andrews Labor Government redevelopment.

The project will create around 600 construction jobs and provide opportunities for local apprentices, in a major economic boost to the Geelong community. The striking design brings together elements drawn from the history of Geelong – showcasing the region’s strong and continuing First Nations culture, its proximity to the ocean, and the local history of circus and theatre.

The new facility will include a 500-seat theatre that expands to an 800-person capacity in ‘live gig’ mode, as well as a hybrid

connected to the Little Malop Street Plaza. The design features a playful connection portal with interactive lighting that joins it with the nearby Ryrie Street Building, as well as bars and alfresco dining for locals and visitors.

Architects Ashton Raggatt McDougall worked with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation as codesigners to weave in stories of the lands, waters and skies as well as local ochres, jarosites from Bells Beach and greenstone found at Dog Rocks in Batesford.

Geelong’s history will be expressed in the Lascelles wool store-inspired moulded concrete walls and the design features a curtain shaped facade inspired

by Victoria’s early history of performance, theatre and circus tents. The flowing form also references the ripples of water and patterns of sand around Geelong.

Lifesaving patrol season for Victorian beaches extended Melbourne, November 24: Victorians are being reminded to stay safe around the water as the weather warms up, with this weekend officially marking the start of what will be an extended lifesaving patrol season around the state.

million visitors to our beaches safe. This is the second time LSV has provided an extended lifesaving season, after last year’s season was extended for a similar period following the busiest patrol season on record and an increase in drownings.

Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes joined volunteers today at Life Saving Victoria’s (LSV) headquarters in Port Melbourne to remind Victorians hitting the beach this summer to swim at patrolled locations and between the red and yellow flags.

Tragically, last year saw Victoria record its highest deadly drowning toll in more than 20 years, with 61 people losing their lives. The Andrews Labor Government has provided $8.5 million in the Victorian Budget 2021/22 to LSV for critical water safety initiatives to reduce the number of drownings and to support LSV in meeting increasing operational costs.

It’s one of the largest ever investments in water safety and includes $4.34 million to support the extension of the lifesaving season in 2021-22 as well as funding for rescue equipment maintenance at LSV and the rest of our 57 lifesaving and surf lifesaving clubs.

This weekend marks the official start of the annual patrol season for thousands of lifesavers and lifeguards, who will run full patrol services at bay and coastal lifesaving clubs around the state until after Easter 2022. Last summer, Victoria volunteer lifesavers and lifeguards performed 612 rescues and undertook 233,700 preventative actions to keep an estimated 3.8

Regional Victoria’s unemployment rate near record low Melbourne, November 18: The Andrews Labor Government is helping more Victorians find work, with new data out today showing near record low unemployment for regional Victoria. The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows regional Victoria’s unemployment rate is 3.3 per cent, well below the national regional average of 4.2 per cent.

In the three months to October 2021, the unemployment rate in Regional Victoria fell by 0.3 percentage points and most areas of Regional Victoria experienced a decline in unemployment rates. Ballarat was one of the state’s strongest performers,

experiencing a decline of 1.2 percentage points to an unemployment rate of 2.7 per cent. Unemployment in Bendigo was down 0.3 per cent and the rate in Gippsland dropped 0.6 per cent.

The figures also show that the regional unemployment rate is now half what it was when the Labor Government came to office, dropping from 6.6 per cent in 2014 to 3.3 per cent today.

Since November 2014, regional Victoria’s growth has been the highest among regional areas across the states and with the further easing of restrictions, Victoria’s economy is well placed to bounce back quickly.

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

COMMUNITY NEWS

Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee winners meet in Canberra T

his year’s best young spellers met with Prime Minister Scott Morrison today after winning the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee in June.

All participants had 15 minutes to spell 30 words, with the winners determined by the accuracy and speed of submitting their answers online.

The Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee is a national spelling competition for school children from Years 3 to 8 that aims to promote and encourage students’ oral and written literacy and spelling skills.

The finalists had to tackle words like connoisseur, and meteorological.

The 2021 national winners are: · Arielle Wong from Donvale Christian College, VIC (Year 3/4 category) · Theekshitha Karthik from Haileybury College, VIC (Year 5/6 category) · Evan Luc-Tran from The McDonald College, NSW (Year 7/8 category)

“I want to thank all students who had a go this year and challenged their spelling skills, and special congratulations to Arielle, Theekshitha and Evan on their achievements,” the Prime Minister said.

“No matter what you want to be when you grow up, spelling and reading are foundation skills that will stay with you for life, and are important to your wellbeing, future learning and success.”

Minister for Education and Youth

Alan Tudge said almost 21,000 students from 490 schools across the country participated in this year’s Spelling Bee. “Congratulations to every student who took part this year, and I encourage families, teachers and young people to talk to their local school about taking part again in 2022,” Minister Tudge said.

The Prime Minister’s National Spelling Bee will be hosted by News Corp’s Kids News on the kidsnews.com.au website.

The free competition will be held digitally, with no physical competition elements and will run in Term 3, 2022, and registrations are planned to open on Monday, 25 July 2022.

More information can be found at www.spelling-bee.com.au.

PM Modi lauds Sacred India Gallery in Mann Ki Baat

I

n Mann Ki Baat address to the Indians on November 28, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the role played by Sacred India Gallery in connecting Australia with India. Located in Perth, Western Australia, the tranquil Sacred India Gallery showcases Jagattarini Dasi’s exquisite miniatures which provides a unique experience of spiritual India.

Tucked away beneath a grove of gumtrees in the Swan Valley region of Western Australia, The Sacred India Gallery offers a unique interactive experience.

Guests are taken on a one hour guided tour which takes in breathtaking installations and the incredible miniature work of

resident artist Jagattarini.

The gallery is a maze of intricate displays, traditional Indian carvings, and Jagattarini’s exquisite miniatures, all of which capture the sights, sounds, and mystical atmosphere of spiritual India.

Jagattarini Dasi lived in Vrindavan for 13 years, where she was enamored by the people, traditions, food, and art. She returned to Australia in 1996 and started creating exquisite miniature scale dioramas. The Sacred India Gallery was opened in 2012 to store, preserve and showcase the miniatures to the public. For last 9 years, visitors have been enriched from the guided tour of the Gallery.

APA hosts Gala Ball in Brisbane A

frican Professionals of Australia - Queensland, hosted its Annual Professionals Gala Ball on 27 November at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre in Brisbane.

President Robert Mukombozi was ably supported by his team members in organising the event, which was attended by

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community leaders from various cultures.

Among those who attended were Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and Lady Mayoress Nina, Cr Angela Owen, Dr Ram Mohan, Umesh Chandra OAM and Usha Chandra, Benjamin Coffman, Jon Raven, Herb Armstrong and Christine Mudavanhu.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Australia India Film Council announced to encourage strong commercial and cultural links Sydney, 30 November: Seven well-known screen industry professionals have today announced their involvement in the creation of the Australia India Film Council (AIFC), which is set to encourage strong commercial and cultural links between Australia, India and Bollywood; the biggest film industry in the world.

Kartik Mohandas

Julie Marlow

Anupam Sharma

Deepti Sachdeva

Joining the AIFC as its inaugural board members will be producers Sheila Jayadev (Stateless, Here Out West), Jomon Thomas (Hotel Mumbai, Monkey Man) Deepti Sachdeva, Kartik Mohandas and Vikrant Kishore. Anupam Sharma (unIndian, The Run) was nominated as Chair, and Julie Marlow former head of Film Victoria as Vice Chair by the board. All members bring with them years of experience and leadership within the film industry and a proven commitment to diversity.

The new council will be working in collaboration with practitioners, producers, investment bodies and seeking support from government bodies for the benefit of Australian screen professionals.

Sheila Jayadev

Vikrant Kishore

Jomon Thomas

Pritesh Raniga

In a message of support to the council’s launch Prime Minister Scott Morrison said: “At a time when our countries are facing profound social and economic challenges, initiatives like the Australia India Film Council (AIFC) are an opportunity to explore our capabilities and build on the special, growing dosti between our two countries.”

“India is one of the most prolific film industries in the world and Australia is one of the most professional film industries in the world,” said AIFC Chair, Sharma.

“By providing a platform for the two to engage, AIFC will be able to encourage a whole new

era of innovation, diversity, and collaboration for the benefit of Australian film industry.”

AIFC Vice Chair Julia Marlow said: “I’m honoured to be part of the Australia India Film Council, an important new initiative to foster cultural and economic collaboration between Australia and India.”

Messages of support have poured in from dignitaries, diplomats, and film agencies. Indian High Commissioner in Australia HE Mr Manpreet Vohra said: “As our bilateral ties deepen and diversify, it is good to see the establishment of a dedicated body like the AIFC to concentrate on film links between the two countries.”

The AIFC aims to provide a platform that cohesively promotes Australian cultural and financial links with the Indian film industry for the benefit of Australia and Australian screen practitioners.

The AIFC will encourage a shared growth of Indian and Australian film relations, enriching the Australian film culture and providing export benefits for Australia by stronger commercial links with the biggest film industry in the world – India.

“I’m excited about the potential for growing collaborations and partnerships, at a time when we are seeing more and more content being made for, and embraced by, a global audience,” said Sheila Jayadev “More than ever now there is a need to bring the Australia-India film trade work and relations under one umbrella as content, formats and delivery modes evolve. A body like this will help tap into the collective knowledge and experience of people who have been working in this space and help shape formal

engagement and discourse. AIFC will be democratic and have a presence on social media and online communities and this excites me a great deal as we need more visibility of what’s happening in the Australia-India film space. The potential we could explore from a trade perspective by streamlining our engagement is equally promising. I am looking forward to supporting this initiative and helping it grow,” Deepti Sachdeva, board member, said.

Jomon Thomas, board member, said, “I believe that the Australia India Film Council (AIFC) is a bold step towards building a portal for creative visionaries to converge.

It is a wonderful opportunity to dissolve creative cultural borders between these two great nations.”

“It was about time that such a body was established. The exploration of cross-cultural synergies given the burgeoning ties between the two countries demands proactive action and nurturing. AIFC has the potential to become the apex body for Australia-India content collaboration,” Kartik Mohandas, board member, said.

Vikrant Kishore, board member, said, “Today, there is still a huge gap connecting the creative industries of Australia and India, it is vital that we have organisations/groups working closely with creatives across the two countries, and beyond!

Thus, I find the formation of the Australia Indian Film Council is at the right time, with a broader aim to connect film professionals and film academics, promote mutually beneficial collaboration, facilitate research and policy development and build a network of practitioners, academics, researchers, and film/media students.”

AFIN International Film Festival held in Brisbane

A

FIN International Film Festival's Awards Gala took place on November 28 in Brisbane. During the Awards Gala, guest speakers from the industry were invited, and there were live performances by Birdman Randy & Ivory Street Preachers.

The festival included three screening nights in Brisbane, which were attended by film makers and film lovers alike, and the formal red carpet awards night.

Besides the dinner, which was included in the ticket price, the attendees were given the opportunity to meet filmmakers, actors, and film industry professionals and be entertained

by MC, multi-talented actress, comedian, and performer, Tracie Filmer.

Awards presentations were done by judges and many special guests, and live entertainment

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was presented by 5-piece band, "Birdman Randy & The Ivory Street Preachers".

AFIN International Film Festival celebrates and showcases excellence in filmmaking and storytelling from emerging and established filmmakers and screenwriters, from every corner of the globe. An open, and market

orientated film industry event, AFIN supports innovation and exploration in film, and provides networking opportunities for local and international film makers.

With direct links with international sales agents and distributors, AFIN make special introductions for certain awards

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winners (Best Feature and Best Australian Film), to assist them in achieving success.

Entries are selected and screened based on their artistic value, originality, globally distributable appeal, production values/quality, and narrative content.

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Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav organised by IAIE, the Indian High Commission, DFAT, JGU and India News A report by Ms Anushka Saxena, Adjunct Fellow, IAIE

O

n 26th November 2021, the Institute of Australia-India Engagement (IAIE) organised a hybrid international webinar on the “Role of Constitutional Democracies in Shaping the Emerging World Order” in partnership with the Indian High Commission - Canberra, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Centre for India-Australia Studies (CIAS) - O.P. Jindal Global University and India News Australia. The event commemorated India’s Constitution Day as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrating 75 years of India’s independence.

The webinar featured keynote speakers Mr Suneet Mehra (Deputy High Commissioner of India to Australia) and Mr Ian Biggs (Deputy High Commissioner of Australia to India), and distinguished speakers - Mrs Archana Singh (Honorary Consul of India in Queensland), Mr Michael Feller (Director, India Political Section, North and South Asia Division, DFAT), Prof. Yogesh Joshi (Research Fellow, Institute for South Asian Studies, National University of Singapore) and Ms. Lalitha Kumaramangalam (Director, India Foundation) and Prof. Shaun Star (Director, CIAS). The event was chaired and moderated by Dr Ashutosh Misra (CEO, IAIE).

Delivering the introductory remark Ashutosh Misra said that the struggle for the Constituent Assembly was being made since the 1930 in protest against Simon Commission, and the British were convinced that nothing short of the granting rights to Indian nationalists to draft the constitution would satisfy them.

Following the first meeting of the Constituent Assembly in 1946, the Constitution drafted and adopted on 26 November 1949, and came into force on 26 January 1950, the day which is celebrated as India’s Republic Day. He also noted that 26 November has also become synonymous with India’s fight against the ideology that does not believe in democratic ethos, civil rights and freedoms. He was referring to the brazen terrorist attacks by Lashkar-e-Toiba terrorists in Mumbai in 2008.

Ashutosh Misra also observed that the world is passing through a critical transition, wherein the liberal democracies realise the need to defend the principles of democracy, freedom and civic liberties to build a stable, secure, transparent and a rule-based world order in the Indo-Pacific.

He shared that the concert of democracies or D-10 comprising the world top ten democracies have been diligently working to build a rule-based order, and in this context the Australia-India Strategic Partnership and QUAD

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are vital.

Archana Singh delivered the welcome speech reflecting upon the internal democratic functioning of India and Australia, their global outlook and multilateral commitments. She emphasised that global challenges required a concerted plurilateral effort, and constitutional democracies needed to come together to address them.

Suneet Mehta, highlighted India’s contributions to making the world a better place in its 75th years of independence. Citing India’s Vaccine Maitreyi initiative he emphasized its commitment towards effectively dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, and underlined India’s largest vaccine drive in the world. He illuminated India’s outstanding record in providing billions of dollars in aid and infrastructure support to nations in need, as well as its commitment towards multilateral forums such as the UNSC, BRICS and G20. He reminded of the importance of strong India-Australia bilateral relations in shaping an open, inclusive and rules-based IndoPacific order. Using the examples of India-Australia agreements on early harvest, maritime domain awareness and critical technology partnership, he noted the rising trajectory of India-Australia bilateral relations.

Ian Biggs brought to light that while Indian and Australian electoral systems are different in terms of scale and process, they share common values like true appreciation for democratic institutions and ideals of justice - not to mention, the celebration of elections with barbecues in Australia and festive road rallies in India. He also talked about the significance of India-Australia partnership in furthering democratic values across their joint multilateral commitments, such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue and the Indo-Pacific regional architecture. Quoting S. Jaishankar, the Indian Minister for External Affairs, Ian Biggs argued that there is a “strategic imperative” for democracies to come together and deal with regional and global challenges, including challenges like undue aggression from other nations, in tandem with their shared democratic ideals. He shared Australia’s evolving democratic and electoral processes since the 1900s to the present, and argued that democracies are not perfect, but are self-correcting and based on consensus-building.

He concluded by quoting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech from the 75th UN General Assembly (2021) : “democracy can deliver, [and] democracy has delivered.”

Michael Feller started his

presentation by remembering the victims of the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai in 2008 in which two Australian lives were also lost. He underscored the relevance of PM Modi’s multilateral initiatives, like the International Solar Alliance, in bringing about constitutionality and democratisation to the Indo-Pacific infrastructure and expressed Australia’s appreciation of it. He highlighted the importance of IndiaAustralia cooperation towards regional and international democratic institutions and regimes, such as the ASEAN and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. He mentioned that Australia has supported India in the UN Human Rights Council, the Universal Postal Union, and the International Maritime Organisation as a good friend.

He concluded by appreciating the presence and role of

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Indian diaspora in Australia in strengthening bilateral relations.

Yogesh Joshi started by emphasising that impact of strategic environment on India’s internal functioning and compared its current strategic environment with the Cold War era, and unprecedented challenges it faces from China, which will exacerbate with diminishing US role and presence in the region. He observed that India-Australia partnership has become stronger because the two countries strive to create a balanced world and a transparent and rules-based regional order driven by their common democratic ethos.

Noting China’s Grey Zone tactics on India’s borders and its economic sanctions against Australia in response to the latter’s demand for an investigation into the origins

of the COVID-19 pandemic, Yogesh Joshi reminded that the balance of power in the IndoPacific is changing drastically. He stressed on the need for India and Australia to build an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific order, work as a counterbalance to China’s actions, and safeguard small island nations’ interests in the region.

Shaun Star kickstarted his presentation by sharing with the audience that three Indians have been awarded Australia’s highest civilian honour the Order of Australia: Former AttorneyGeneral of India, Soli Sorabjee, Kiran Majumdar Shaw and Sachin Tendulkar. He observed that the Indian and Australian constitutions have many common tenets borrowed from Great Britain and took note of the shared legal perspectives between India and Australia on aspects

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Mr Ian Biggs

like constitutionality and rule of law that are based on the British Common Law. Quoting Michael Kirby, an eminent jurist from Australia, Shaun Star observed that it is intriguing that Indian and Australian lawyers do not know enough about each other and the other country’s legal systems. He listed similarities between the two constitutions such as the separation of powers, independent judiciary and respect for pluralism. He also argued that just like Indian courts have used case-law from Australian jurisprudence as precedents, Australia also has a lot to learn about Bill of Rights (Public Interest Litigation in India) from India and its elaborate constitution. Using examples of diversity in interpretations and approaches across the Indian and Australian judicial systems, Shaun Star argued that despite the shared values of democratic constitutionality and respect for rule of law between the two countries, there still remains a lot for both countries to learn from each other.

The last speaker Lalitha Kumaramangalam shared her experience of working with women and marginalised communities across the board observing that constitutional democracies would matter even

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more in the post-COVID-19 world order as the pandemic has made the global mass political participation a reality. She shared the arguments made by Shaun Star regarding the flexibility of India’s constitution which has in 72 years passed 105 amendments.

Taking into account the example of Dakshayani Velayudhan, a female legislator who voiced the concerns of the oppressed classes (the Dalit community), Lalitha Kumaramangalam argued that the Constituent Assembly which drafted the Constitution brought some unique individuality to it, making it a dynamic document.

She emphasised that women’s rights have come a long way, but much work is still needed for further empowerment and gender equality. Highlighting the diverse coexistences of religion, gender and classes in India, she argued that despite the “negative publicity,” Indian women particularly and marginalised communities in the country in general have experienced remarkable changes towards equality and empowerment which is why the “New India” is a model for constitutional democracies, globally.

Dr. Yogesh Joshi

Mr Michael Feller

Mr Suneet Mehta

Lalitha Kumarmangalam

Prof Shaun Star, Dr Ashutosh Misra and Mrs Archana Singh

The webinar concluded with a vote of thanks from Ashutosh Misra.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

MCCG hosts event Meet, Great & Eat

M

ulticultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCG) hosted the dinner event Meet, Great & Eat, a multicultural community networking event on 30 November in Gold Coast.

During the evening, the participants got to know one another, learned together and enjoyed a delicious meal along with spellbinding performances from Joseph Vea and the Mongolian traditional dance called 'Biliegee'. Also, MC Rohaan kept the event smoothly on track during the evening.

Australian Department of Home Affairs officials came to answer the participants' border

questions, with Antonella presenting Work Towards program, besides Queensland Government officials presenting their Mentoring for Growth program.

Gold Coast Sikh Association host dinner and dance event

G

old Coast Sikh Association organised Multicultural Dinner and Dance, a night full of dance, music and fun on 27 November in Bundall, Gold Coast.

It turned out to be a great entertaining night with scrumptious Indian food on offer, as is evident from the glimpses of the event.

Exciting

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Dec Vol2,2,Issue Issue9 10 Nov 1-15, 1-15,2021 2021 -- Vol

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Glasgow impacts 80% of global coal pipeline: Analysis New Delhi, November 17 (IANS): Announcements and pledges made at the just concluded Glasgow climate summit (COP26) will directly impact 80 percent of planned coal-fired power plants around the world, an analysis said on November 17.

of planned coal power plants outside of China.

With several net zero pledges announced, 95 per cent of the existing global coal power fleet is committed to carbon neutrality.

The Glasgow climate summit has had a significant impact on existing and new coal power across the world. Coal is the single largest contributor to carbon emissions.

The "no new coal" and “finance” pledges will likely result in cancellation of 88 GW of new coal. Further, 165 GW of new coal could still go ahead but are called into question by carbon targets announced in the run-up to COP26 or at COP26. Only 56 GW of new coal projects remain unaffected.

The summit ended with high drama over the wording of the final text being changed from 'phase-out' to 'phase-down' of unabated coal.

According to an analysis by CREA, a total of 88 gigawatts (GW) of planned coal-fired capacity, a total of 90 large-scale projects, is likely to be cancelled as a result of the pledges. The cancelled capacity represents two-thirds

Globally, the amount of planned coal power stands at around 300 GW. Eighty percent of this is impacted by “no new coal” pledges, “finance pledges” and “net zero” pledges.

"China did not sign on to any pledges on domestic coal power but aims to peak coal use by around 2025, making new coal projects highly questionable.

"India, with the second biggest coal pipeline after China, committed to 2070 net zero targets and now the only country which could still add new coal power plants. However, India's

500 GW renewable power capacity and 50 per cent clean electricity targets by 2030 mean that coalfired power generation is likely to peak and decline well before 2030, leaving no space for new coal projects to be built and operated," said Lauri.

The global coal power plant fleet stands at about 2,060 GW of installed capacity. Of this, an additional 290 GW now has a close-by date as a direct result of announcements and pledges made in the run-up to and at COP26.

Altogether, 550 GW or 26 per cent of existing coal is already scheduled to retire. Of the total 550 GW, 280 GW have a 1.5 C compatible phase-out date.

Another 1,420 GW of existing coal capacity is covered by carbon neutrality pledges but does not have a clear retirement date announced. Eighty-nine GW or less than five per cent of existing coal is not covered by either type of commitments.

87% Pakistanis reckon country headed in wrong direction New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): As many as 87 percent of Pakistanis believe the country is headed in the wrong direction, said the latest survey conducted by research company IPSOS Pakistan.

Almost 1,100 people participated in the survey which was conducted in November, Geo News reported.

According to IPSOS's fourth quarterly report on Consumer Confidence Index, 43 percent of Pakistanis consider inflation as the biggest problem of the country.

Fourteen per cent of the respondents declared unemployment to be Pakistan's top-most and most troubling issue, whereas 12 per cent referred to poverty as the most important matter.

Forty-six per cent of the survey's respondents termed Pakistan's economic condition as weak and only 5 per cent declared it as

correct.

strong, the report said.

As per the IPSOS, in the last survey, 26 percent of Pakistanis had declared inflation as the biggest issue of the country.

When asked about improvement in the economic situation in the next six months, 64 per cent said they don't see that, while 12 per cent were hopeful that the economy would improve. Twentyfour per cent were neither hopeful nor disappointed.

According to the survey, the percentage of respondents who declared coronavirus the most important issue reduced from 18 per cent to 8 per cent.

The survey revealed that people listed inflation and economic problems on top of all issues. It also noted that rising prices and unemployment are the issues that concern most people.

The percentage of Pakistanis who said the country is headed in the wrong direction, is the highest in 27 months.

On Pakistan's current economic condition, 49 per cent respondents of the survey said it was so-so, but 46 per cent were clear in their answer and said it was weak. Only 5 per cent said the country's economic condition is

When asked about their personal financial situation, 47 per cent of the respondents said it is weak and unstable, while 5 per cent answered it was strong. However, 48 per cent said their personal financial condition was neither weak nor strong.

According to Ipsos, there was an increase of 20 per cent in the people who observed the financial condition as weak after June 2021.

About the improvement in the personal financial condition in the next six months, 63 per cent feared it will remain weak.

However, 13 per cent were hopeful it would get better, while 24 per cent were unsure in their answer.

New Zealand passes drug-checking law Wellington, November 23 (IANS): New Zealand Health Minister Andrew Little on November 23 said drug-checking services will continue to operate legally at festivals, pop-up clinics, university orientation and other places this summer and beyond after a law was passed earlier in the day.

The services have been legal since last summer under temporary legislation that expires in December, reports Xinhua news agency.

The Drug and Substance Checking Legislation Bill (No. 2), which passed its third reading

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and will come into effect on December 7, means services can now continue and be expanded as required, Little said in a statement.

"This legislation is about keeping people safe," he said, adding that the current drug-checking services have detected and intercepted potentially deadly substances circulating in the community.

Evidence shows that when people are told substances are not what they think they are, they'll often choose not to take them, potentially saving lives, Little said.

Research by the Wellington-based

Victoria University on behalf of the Ministry of Health showed that 68 percent of festival-goers who used drug-checking services said they had changed their behaviour once they saw the results, said the Minister.

The government has also approved three new organisations to perform drug-checking services.

The New Zealand Drug Foundation, the NZ Needle Exchange Program and the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) will work alongside existing provider KnowYourStuffNZ.

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WORLD NEWS

Sweden elects 1st female PM

IANS

Stockholm, November 24 (IANS): The Swedish Parliament on November 24 elected Magdalena Andersson as the country's firstever female Prime Minister.

Andersson took office after a meeting with King Carl XVI Gustaf on November 26, giving her less than 10 months to prepare for the country's 2022 general elections, reports Xinhua news agency.

Sweden is the only Nordic country never to have elected a woman as national leader before.

Swedish PM Magdalena Andersson

Fiji's international airport ready to reopen Suva, November 24 (IANS): Fiji is ready to re-open Nadi International Airport as more than 90 percent of adults in the island nation have been fully vaccinated against Covid and amid a careful re-opening strategy in place, Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said on November 24.

According to Fijivillage news website on November 24, the opening on December 1 means Nadi will now be the gateway of

Covid-safe tourism in a postpandemic Pacific, reports Xinhua news agency.

Khaiyum's remark came as the Nadi International Airport has achieved Airports Council International's airport health re-accreditation for its Covid-19 health and safety measures.

The airport is located in Nadi, the third largest city on the western side of Viti Levu, the main island in Fiji.

The Karachi criminal who turned FBI spy New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): While condemning the US Federal Bureau of Investigation's valued secret agent Kamran Faridi, 57, to seven years in jail in December 2020, Judge Cathy Seibel of New York's Southern District Court described it as "perhaps the most difficult sentencing I have ever done", Geo News reported.

The judge commented that the case carried facts, "unlike anything I think most of us have ever seen".

Faridi's "career" had started with hustling on the rough streets of Karachi, segued into major crimes, and then swerved towards a life of dangerous undercover operations for American secret services.

He ultimately ran afoul of his handlers for issuing death threats to three former colleagues - his

FBI supervisor, an FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force ( JTTF) officer, and his former FBI handler - in February 2020.

After his contract was suddenly revoked, Faridi emailed and texted multiple death threats on February 17 and 18, 2020, to his former FBI handlers.

The court heard that Faridi had "felt betrayed" by the FBI because his wife, Kelly, had just been diagnosed with cancer, and news of his termination worsened the blow.

The US government also informed the court that Faridi had helped "enemies of the US" when he asked his wife to alert at least four or five suspects that they were under surveillance, the report added.

The judge sent him to jail for a seven-year term.

More than 250 Afghan media outlets shut since Taliban takeover Kabul, November 24 (IANS): Since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, a total of 257 media outlets have been shut "due to financial challenges as well as restrictions", a media report said citing an NGO. NAI, the group which has been providing advocacy and support to the Afghan media industry since 2004, said on November 23 said the closed outlets include print, radio and TV stations, TOLO News reported.

According to NAI, over 70 per cent of Afghan media workers have

become jobless or left the country after Kabul fell to the Taliban on August 15.

Reports have also revealed that during the 100 days of Taliban rule, six reporters have lost their lives in various incidents including attacks by unknown armed men, explosions, suicide and traffic incidents.

Officials of the Taliban-led Islamic Emirate government have repeatedly said they are committed to protect media achievements and freedom of expression.

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WORLD THIS WEEK

WORLD THIS WEEK Contributed by the National Institute for Advanced Studies, Bengaluru

Compiled by Hari Madhusudan, Sukanya Bali and Avishka Ashok

China: Virtual Russia: The Anti- ALSO IN NEWS China: Xi calls for 'steady Chinameeting between Satellite test US' relationship in the virtual Biden and Xi meet with Biden On 16 November, Chinese calls for greater President Xi Jinping called for "developing a sound and steady cooperation China-US relationship" during a The New York Times

What happened?

What happened?

On 16 November, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden held a 3.5 hour-long virtual meeting to address the issues of dissension between the two countries.

On 16 November, Xinhua Net reported that President Xi had called for steady relations with the US and said: "China and the United States should respect each other, coexist in peace, pursue win-win cooperation, and manage domestic affairs well while shouldering international responsibilities."

On 15 November, the White House released President Biden's statements which warmly welcomed the meet and said: "it seems to me our responsibility as leaders of China and the United States is to ensure that the competition between our countries does not veer into conflict, whether intended or unintended. Just simple, straightforward competition."

During the meeting, President Xi also questioned the ideology of democracy and explained that "democracy is not "mass produced" with a uniform model."

The statement made by Xi reprimanded Biden for claiming a patent on democracy.

What does it mean?

The meeting between the two leaders is aimed at greater cooperation to facilitate the two countries' continuous and uninterrupted economic progress. The US and China realize that stalling each other might, in turn, damage their interests and thus are willing to compromise and work individually without bothering each other. However, the US may find itself in a tight spot if it cannot voice its opinions on the territorial aggression of China since it has many stakes in the Indo-Pacific region. The priority for both the leaders is to prevent the world from entering into yet another cold war era.

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On 15 November, a missile from the earth was launched to target and destroy a Russian satellite in low-earth orbit, also known as a Direct-Ascent AntiSatellite(DA-ASAT). The target was a defunct satellite from the Soviet-era called Tselina-D or Cosmos-1408. Following the test, instructions were given to the crew at the International Space Station, consisting of two Russian astronauts, four US astronauts, and one German, to take shelter in their capsules for two hours as a precaution.

The Russian test has come when there has been an increase in the activities and actors in Outer Space. "Russia has demonstrated a deliberate disregard for the security, safety, stability, and long-term sustainability of the space domain for all nations," US Space Command Commander James Dickinson said in a statement. Antony Blinken condemned the test as "reckless and irresponsible." The US State Department, NASA, and the officials from the Pentagon raised alarms about the impact of the debris generated by the test. The Russian military responded by calling the US 'hypocritical' as the resulting fragments from this test are unlikely to pose a threat to space activities or assets.

What does it mean?

The Russian officials have revealed that the present ASAT test responded to the US announcement of a Space Force.

There has been a sizable growth in the space industry in terms of innovation, investments, and cost management, which directly influences the need for ASAT capability. The Secure World Foundation has called for a formal halt among all countries to stop ASAT testing, which sounds similar to the NPT model of nuclear energy. However, the more effective response would be to work towards robotic management and efficient safety protocols that ensure the safety of technology and crew.

Additionally, the outcomes of an ASAT test need not be seen as a Space Debris problem, as it is not the primary outcome of the test.

virtual meeting with US President Joe Biden. Global Times reported: Xi said, "China and the United States should respect each other, coexist in peace, pursue win-win cooperation, and manage domestic affairs well while shouldering international responsibilities." He also pointed out, "both China and the US are at critical stages of development, and the global village of humanity faces multiple challenges."

China: Global wealth surges, Beijing replaces Washington at the top spot On 14 November, McKinsey & Co reported that the global wealth tripled to USD 514 trillion in 2020 from USD 156 trillion in 2000. The net worth of China surged and replaced the US from the top spot.

Bloomberg reported: according to McKinsey, the rise in net worth since 2000 "outstripped the increase in GDP" and "has been fueled by ballooning property prices pumped up by declining interest rates." The report also observed that "asset prices are almost 50% above their long-run average relative to income" and has raised concerns about the sustainability of the wealth boom.

Japan: IAEA team review plans to discharge radioactive water of Fukushima On 16 November, a team from IAEA arrived in Japan to study the preparations for releasing treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant. A larger team is expected to visit in December. On 18 November, TEPCO said, the planned release of radioactive water containing small amounts of tritium into the sea will have a "minimal" impact on the environment and health. The discharge is opposed by the fishing community and the neighboring countries including, South Korea and China.

The Japanese government has requested assistance from the UN agency to ensure the release meets all the safety standards and address the international community's concerns.

India: Foreign minister says Sino-Indian relationship going through a 'bad patch,' China agrees to "early resolution" of border disputes On 19 November, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar said that India-China relations were going through a "bad patch," because Beijing's actions violated bilateral agreements without

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Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar

explanations. He further added, "I don't think the Chinese have any doubt on where we stand on our relationship and what's not gone right with it." On 18 November, New Delhi and Beijing, at the 23rd WMCC meeting, agreed to an "early resolution" of the disputes along the LAC in Ladakh and complete disengagement from the friction points in the Western Sector. They also decided to hold the 14th meeting of Senior Commanders "at an early date" and meanwhile agreed "to ensure a stable ground situation."

India: Coronavirus cases expected to rise globally says, WHO Scientist Soumya Swaminathan

On 15 November, WHO scientist Soumya Swaminathan said that COVID-19 cases are likely to rise across the world amid the fear of the third wave in India. She added that the inoculation of vulnerable populations has resulted in the decoupling between "infections and deaths." According to CNBCTV18, she observed the surge in infection in Western Europe has increased hospitalization but has not significantly increased deaths due to large-scale vaccinations.

Responding to the question of booster doses, she said: "We have to determine the need for booster doses and also make it clear who needs to have the additional doses." She also supported WHO's emergency approval of India's Covaxin.

for extra transit capacity on pipelines to Europe for the third consecutive month despite the climbing energy prices. European countries have accused Russia of blackmailing the countries by cutting off energy supplies in an attempt to get approval for the mega pipeline under the Baltic Sea in its Nord Stream 2 pipeline project. The Russian government has responded to the claims and said that it was not interfering in the markets and that the countries could strike deals with the company to secure energy supply in the coming winter.

The US: Congress passes bipartisan infrastructure bill while the House passes the Build Back Better Act On 18 November, the House of Representatives in the US Parliament passed the USD 1.9 trillion spending bill called the Build Back Better Act. The bill is yet to be approved by the Senate and faces a much bigger challenge, with Senator Joe Machin highlighting significant concerns regarding the plan.

The Act attempts to reform the social safety net. Congress recently passed the bipartisan infrastructure bill. It was successfully made law after President Biden signed the bill.

The US: Kenosha shooting accused released and found not guilty by the Jury NPR

Iran: IAEA reports an increase in stockpiles of enriched uranium

Daily Sabah

On 17 November, the IAEA released a report revealing that Iran had increased its enriched uranium stocks. The report came to light just a week before the Vienna talks resume after a long stalling period. According to the report, the current stock of 2,489.7 kilograms is much higher than the agreed limit in the JCPOA deal. The stockpile 20 percent enriched uranium also stands at 113.8 kilograms, 29 kilograms higher than October.

Russia: Gazprom rejects offer for extra capacity On 16 November, the Moscow Times reported that Gazprom company had rejected the offer

On 19 November, the jury announced that Kyle Rittenhouse, a teenager accused of shooting during the unrest in Kenosha, was found not guilty on all charges.

Kyle was accused of killing two and injuring another person during the shooting and four other felony charges. The jury believed that the actions taken

by Kyle were in self-defense and hence did not hold him guilty.

About the authors Harini Madhusudan is a PhD Scholar, and Avishka Ashok is a Research Associate at NIAS. Sukanya Bali is a Doctoral candidate at OP Jindal Global University.

The report has been modified

by India News due to space considerations.

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From the editor's desk India’s Constitution Day celebrated globally

IANS

Diwali fest as a tool of ‘Soft Power’

By Nirendra Dev

T

he move by US lawmakers led

by Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney from New York to get a new draft law that would declare Diwali as a federal holiday is a landmark event of our time.

After Yoga, we now have Diwali the festival of Light and Sound -as a symbol of India's Soft Power.

I

ndia is celebrating Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav commemorating 75th year of India’s independence. In India and across the world the Indian government is organising a series of events to celebrate India’s constitutional and cultural journey over the last 75 years, and it is a great way to share India’s culture and soft power appeal with the wider world and Indian diaspora.

On 26 November, a number of events were celebrated in the Indian Parliament and also around the world, including in Australia. What is so special about 26 November? 26 November is celebrated as the Constitution Day in India because the Constituent Assembly that was formed in 1946, led by Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar, adopted the Indian constitution to replace the Government of India Act of 1935 and Independence Act of 1947.

The struggle to demand a Constituent Assembly was being made since 1930 by the Indian nationalists and the Indian National Congress, in a protest against the Simon Commission, and the British were convinced that nothing short of granting rights to Indian nationalists to draft the constitution would satisfy them. This is how the constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 and came into force two months later, on 26 January 1950, which is celebrated as India’s Republic Day. 26 November is also etched in India’s memories and of liberal democracies around the world because on this fateful day in 2008, 10 terrorists of the Lashkar-e-Toiba from Pakistan, unleashed three days of mayhem and bloodshed across the Mumbai city. It was a brazen attack on India’s democracy, freedoms and liberal ethos, killing 175 including 2 Australians, Douglas Markell and Brett Taylor, and injuring 300

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others. Ever since, 26 November has also become synonymous with India’s fight against extremism, authoritarianism and cross border terrorism, driven by the perpetrators of an extremist ideology who do not believe in democracy, liberalism and civic freedoms.

Similarly, today the world is also passing through a critical transition, when the liberal democracies realise the need to defend the principles of democracy, freedom and civil liberties to build a stable, secure, transparent and a rule-based world order. The concert of democracies or D10, including the world top 10 democracies have been diligently working during the last couple of years to build a transparent and accountable rule-based order in the IndoPacific. It is in this context that the Australia-India Strategic Partnership and QUAD become a game changer critical cog in the region.

It is heartening that India News in conjunction with the Institute for Australia India Engagement (IAIE), Indian High Commission, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade organised a hybrid event on the “Role of Constitutional Democracies in Shaping the Emerging World Order”. The event featured outstanding panellists: Suneet Mehta, Indian Deputy High Commissioner in Canberra; Ian Biggs, Australian Deputy High Commissioner to India; Michael Feller, Director, India political section, North and South Asia Division, DFAT; Lalitha Kumaramanglam, former Chairperson of National Commission for Women from New Delhi; Yogesh Joshi, Research Fellow, Institute for South Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore; Archana Singh, Honorary Consul Queensland, Government of India; Shaun Star, Director, Centre for India Australia Studies, Jindal Global University; and Ashutosh Misra, CEO, IAIE and Editor in Chief India News and National Chair Sports Australia India Business Council.

EDITORIAL

Statesmanship, mutual benefits, and strategic significance, not necessarily in that order, decide foreign policy ball games in the contemporary settings. Now, it is time to add 'Soft Power' as a major tool. The emphasis is bigger and more thrustful in the post pandemic era.

Without realising much, we now know that the world is changing pretty fast. The 'great resignation' saga as witnessed by MNCs is a case in point.

For beginners, a Microsoft study says nearly 40 per cent of professionals are keen to give up their existing jobs in the current calendar year. Welcome to a new world era wherein the civilisational and cultural prisms too could prove to be effective tools in the changed world order.

Perhaps this can be underlined better also in the context of developments in Afghanistan and some roles played by Pakistan.

Religiosity can have a soothing impact for someone who uses these occasions to gaze in within oneself. These virtues are appreciated in advanced societies as materialistic achievements have made people lonely and friendless.

More than creating 'segments' like Hindu culture or fest, certain things are emerging now as a global phenomenon.

The timing of Diwali festival in between autumn and winter is not something to be lost.

The light and sound kill some bacteria in the air - that's for the rational school; and in pursuing this argument, one knows the problems lay in overdoing things.

Bursting of firecrackers would have been pleasant and a tasteful experience had this not become a symbol of showmanship. If firecrackers are bad for the environment, so is gambling and the so-called gift-exchange culture of Delhi for human behaviour. Here too, the problem is in overdoing things; not ordering a blanket ban as a presumed corrective strategy.

to be dismissed as out of the blue.

Life is often like standing in the dusk, to use poetic jargon. It is all about optimism. Optimism leads to patience. The storm would pass off eventually, no matter how long it is.

This is a major takeaway from oriental teachings and India's perspectives. That's the essence of India's civilisational "soft power" strength too. Diwali symbolises glory of virtues over vices like most festivals and rituals across the globe.

Switching on to another chapter now, there are observers who say that Indians thrive on self pity and that's why we Indians often continue to curse ourselves. The polarization of India's intellectual class is so deep that it is difficult to express an opinion and that would still be considered an

The festival of light and sound which essentially marks the victory of Good over Evil and Knowledge over Ignorance is being celebrated with religious zeal in countries such as the UAE, Canada, the African nations and Malaysia.

have attracted attention and excitement globally. This has not happened because Indians can influence the outcome in an US election, this is also because people see merit in some of these festivals and practices.

The festival of light and sound which essentially marks the victory of Good over Evil and Knowledge over Ignorance is being celebrated with religious zeal in countries such as the UAE, Canada, the African nations and Malaysia. In many countries, Diwali has made a mark as a festival of share and care.

People also do charity work at orphanages and old age homes.

It is worth mentioning that in 2016 in the context of Art of Living's World Culture Festival in Delhi, none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said, "We (Indians) can make contribution (of India's soft power) only when we ourselves feel proud of our culture. But if we continue to curse ourselves, then how will the world look towards us? The world is not only united by concerns of economic growth, but also by human values and India can play a vital role in it."

objective one.

The motive of building a predefined narrative against Hindu fests and practices, if any, has thus fallen flat.

If one writes a few lines on Hindu festivals and oriental traditions and values, he is in danger of being called a communal! But the fact of life is that some Indian and, for that matter, Hindu fests

(Nirendra Dev is a New Delhibased journalist. He is also author of books, 'The Talking Guns: North East India' and 'Modi to Moditva: An Uncensored Truth' )

Times Magazine

The New York Times

The global recognition by the UN and ongoing craze for Yoga and a renewed zeal for festivals such as Deepawali have some messages.

Of these, the big picture message is - the international game can be no longer about pushing a singleagenda item.

Soft power games also means persuasive diplomacy. It may be out of the box, but not something

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MAKE IN INDIA

MAKE IN INDIA

As world economies restart their engines in a bid to regain lost ground due to the Covid-19 pandemic, India too shows signs of economic buoyancy and promise. India’s Make in India initiative holds a key to the global economic revival, something that should interest Australian government ministries, corporate sector, entrepreneurs, institutions seeking R&D collaborations and Australia Inc in general, among others. India assumes greater importance as several major world economies including American, Japanese, German, British and South Korean look to move out and diversify their businesses from China.

India has jumped to 63rd rank in the World Bank’s Ease of Development 2020 report, and has also been ranked as the 9th largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investment in 2019 by the World Investment Report 2020 of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

Green Hydrogen- India’s Sunrise Sector

By Kanika Verma, Strategic Investment Research Unit (SIRU)

T

he thing that is going to help India with a quantum leap in terms of climate is the field of green hydrogen1,” – Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Hydrogen has been an upcoming sector across the globe with huge industrial applications. Increasing number of companies across the globe are now exploring green hydrogen. Green hydrogen has been labelled as one of the cleanest forms of energy in the world. It is being looked at as the ultimate solution to achieve net zero emissions. Through the process of electrolysis, all that is needed to produce hydrogen is water, a big electrolyser and electricity. The electric current then splits the water into its two components- hydrogen and oxygen. This means no release of greenhouse emissions since oxygen is the only by-product of this process. Additionally, if the electricity used comes from renewable sources, it makes the process completely emission free.

In line with India’s ambitious green commitments, Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims to transform India into an energy independent nation by 2047 where green hydrogen will play an active role as an alternate fuel to petroleum/ fossil-based products.

To keep pace with global companies, the National Hydrogen Mission was announced in the Budget Speech of FY 2021-22 to produce hydrogen from green energy sources. The scheme was announced putting Green Hydrogen at the heart of India’s energy security and climate change.

According to a report by TERI, in 2020, India’s hydrogen demand stood at 6 million tons (MT) per year.2 However, studies have shown a tremendous opportunity for growth in this area. It is estimated that by 2030, the hydrogen costs will be down by 50 per cent.3 The demand for hydrogen is expected to see a

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5-fold jump to 28 MT by 2050 where 80 percent of the demand is expected to be green in nature.4 Many Indian companies have already started announcing their plans to dip their toes in the green energy sub-sector.

Recently, India’s largest oil and gas sector company, Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) has announced its plans to go green. The company has recently announced its plans to become a net zero carbon firm by 2035.

RIL has plans to invest INR 600 billion to build a 5000-acre green energy complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat.5 The complex will house an electrolyser plant to produce green hydrogen.

GAIL (India), a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) has floated a recent tender to procure an electrolyser. They are looking at locations to finalise a 10 MW plant, one of the biggest plants announced so far.6 GAIL has taken a step forward and has already started mixing hydrogen in natural gas on a trial basis in one of the cities. Similarly, NTPC has also shown interest in producing green hydrogen on a commercial scale. They have expressed their plans to do the same from its 4.75 GW park at the Rann of Kutch and have announced a 5 MW7 plant.

Presently, the company is running a pilot in their Vindhyachal unit.

Further the company also has plans to set up a green hydrogen fuelling station in Leh, Ladakh and will start with plying 5 hydrogen buses. They have invited Expression of Interests (EOIs) for 10 hydrogen fuel cell buses and cars.8 Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) is another PSU that has announced its plans to explore the green hydrogen opportunity.

They recently announced their plans to setup a green hydrogen plant at their Mathura refinery in Uttar Pradesh with a capacity of around 160,000 barrels per day.9 Acting firmly on their target to convert at least 10 percent of its

hydrogen consumption at the refineries to green hydrogen, they plan to convert 10 percent of the usage in their Mathura location to green sources by the year 2024.

IOCL also has plans to set up a hydrogen manufacturing unit in Kochi, which is targeted to draw energy from the solar facility at the Kochi international airport.

Additionally, IOCL floated a tender for 15 hydrogen PEM fuel cell electric buses .

Larsen and Tourbo (L&T) is another Indian entity looking to venture into the green hydrogen sector. According to their latest report, they have set an aim to achieve net zero emissions by 2040 and plan to spend INR 10-15 Bn on its green initiatives.

In addition to exploring the possibility of manufacturing electrolysers, they are setting up a green hydrogen plant at their Hazira complex, which is scheduled to be completed within this financial year.

Both Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) are planning to use hydrogen for its refineries.

Furthermore, Solar Energy Corporation Limited (SECI), is looking to invite bids to build green hydrogen plants using renewable energy sources.The corporation recently released a Notice Inviting Tenders (NIT) for setting up a Green Hydrogen based pilot project at SNM hospital in Leh, Ladakh.

Establishing India as a global hub for green hydrogen generation, Ohmium International through its subsidiary in India has shipped its first ever unit of electrolyser to the United States. The electrolyser was manufactured in Ohmium’s Bengaluru facility which is India’s first green hydrogen electrolyser Gigafactory.16 India’s journey into the green hydrogen space has been path breaking. As of now, the industry faces high cost of production but owing to increased demand, technology upgradation and strong government support, the industry will soon establish economies of scale, driving down the cost. In line with India’s Make in India initiative and its net zero emission targets, the sector provides tremendous scope for growth and investments.

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India - a biotech growth catalyst

I

ndia is among the top 12 destinations for biotechnology in the world, with approximately 3% share of the global biotechnology industry. The sector is a key contributor to India’s vision of reaching a $ 5 Trillion economy by 2024.

The sector plays a key role in the global vaccine market, as the leader in the global supply of DPT, BCG, and measles vaccines, and is also a key contributor of 70% of WHO’s vaccines (essential Immunization Schedule). India also ranks 48th on the Global Innovation Index.

•

The Indian biotech industry comprises of over 5,000 companies (760 core companies and 4,240 start-ups) and is aligned around five major segments: BioPharma, BioAgriculture, BioIndustrial, and combined segment of BioServices comprising of BioIT, CROs, and Research Services.

•

The Indian biotechnology industry is forecast to reach $150 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 16.4%

•

12.3% year on year growth (FY20 to FY19)

•

Over 4237 biotech startups, expected to reach 10,000 by 2025

•

760+ core biotech companies, 200+ Biotech products

•

Rising contribution to national GDP (2.7% in 2020 against 2.2% in 2019)

India led the world into Biosimilar Innovation and became the 1st country to approve and market a biosimilar in 2000 with over 98 biosimilars approved (till September 2019), which is the highest in the world 100% FDI is allowed under the automatic route for greenfield pharma.

100% FDI is allowed under the government route for brownfield pharma in upto 74% FDI which is under automatic route and beyond 74% is under the government approval route.

FDI up to 100% is allowed under the automatic route for the manufacturing of medical devices.

Food processing - 'A sunrise sector'

I

ndia's food ecosystem offers huge opportunities for investments with stimulating growth in the food retail sector, favorable economic policies, and attractive fiscal incentives.

processed food products in AprilOctober.

•

Through the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), the Government of India is taking all necessary steps to boost investments in the food processing industry in India.

The government has sanctioned 41 food parks funded under the Mega Food Parks Scheme of which 38 have final approval.

In 2014, there were only 2 Mega Food Parks in the country. As of 1 August 2021 there are 22 Mega Food Parks functioning in the country. Now the target is to take their number to more than 40.

By 2025, India’s food processing industry is expected to be worth over half a trillion dollars.

•

By 2030, Indian annual household consumption to treble, making India fifth largest consumer

India recorded close to 15% rise in export of agricultural and

100% FDI is permitted under the automatic route in food processing industries in India.

100% FDI is allowed through the government approval route for trading, including through e-commerce in respect of food products manufactured or produced in India.

SOURCE: Invest India, National Investment Promotion & Facilitation Agency, Government of India

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Bill to ban all cryptocurrencies to be introduced in Parliament IANS

New Delhi, November 23 (IANS): The Union government will move a Bill which seeks to prohibit all private cryptocurrencies in India in the Winter Session of Parliament starting November 29.

It will be called The

Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill, 2021. However, it allows for certain exceptions to promote the underlying technology of cryptocurrency and its usage.

The Bill has been listed for introduction, consideration and passing in the Lok Sabha. It is among 26 new Bills, which are to be introduced in the Parliament session beginning November 29.

and ensure that it does not end up in the wrong hands.

Giving an example of the virtual currency, he had said, "Take cryptocurrency or Bitcoin for example. It is important that all nations work together on this and ensure it does not end up in the wrong hands, which can spoil our youth."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier said that all democratic countries need to work together on cryptocurrency

Several high meetings have been held to discuss the regulation of cryptocurrencies.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee had also called for the regulation.

its ties with India's innovators, technologists and entrepreneurs, as well as the Indian government at all levels," he added.

that is prosperous, safe and secure, and where human dignity is best expressed through choice and freedom," he said.

The Australian PM said that he is delighted to join the Bengaluru Tech Summit.

Morrison said that technology is at the forefront of the comprehensive strategic partnership he signed with Prime Minister Modi last year.

Australia PM announces new Consulate General in Bengaluru Bengaluru, November 17 (IANS): Australian Prime Minister Scot Morrison announced the opening of a new Consulate General in Bengaluru during his virtual inaugural address at the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) here on November 17. "I'm pleased to let you know that Australia is also seeking to establish a new Consulate General in Bengaluru.

Bengaluru is the world's fastest growing technology hub, and of course we want to be a part of it. It is home to a third of India's unicorn companies," Morrison said.

"Australia's new mission in Bengaluru would expand our diplomatic presence in India to five posts. Australia will deepen

"I want to thank my good friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as well as Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, for once again hosting what is the region's largest technology event," he said.

"Our countries share a deep friendship – ‘mateship' as we say in Australia, or as you say, ‘maitri'. Australia and India are diverse, multicultural and liberal democracies which seek a world

"We're already making great progress. We're sharing expertise on cyber and critical technologies like quantum computing and AI," he said.

"I'm honoured that Prime Minister Modi will address the Sydney Dialogue on November 18. The ties that bind our nations are indeed strong and abiding," he added.

Traders across the country stage protests against Amazon

IANS

New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): In view of some scary incidents in the country's e-commerce business in the recent past, the US giant Amazon has facilitated the sale of -- marijuana illegally through its portal and banned chemicals in making bombs.

And now the incident of selling poison through the e-commerce portal of Amazon has shocked the Country. Making a strong protest against such activities of the Amazon, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) November 24 held protests in more than 1,200 cities in over 500 districts of different states of the country.

The protesters demonstrated the anger and resentment of the trading community by holding dharna and demonstration and

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should be investigated in a timebound manner. While like the arrest of Aryan Khan in a drug case, the Amazon officials should also be arrested in the same way and a sedition case should be registered against Amazon for facilitating the sale of chemicals in the Pulwama attack. warned Amazon that either they should make their business model according to the law and rules, otherwise prepare to tie their sack bed from India. Now the violation of laws and rules in e-commerce business will not be tolerated, CAIT said, adding that if no concrete action is taken immediately in this matter, then the traders of the country will organise -- 'Bharat Vyapar Bandh' to raise their voice. The CAIT also said that Amazon's love & affection towards the sale of marijuana is evident from the fact that it has asked the US government to legalise the sale of marijuana.

CAIT has demanded that the business model of Amazon and other e-commerce companies

CAIT has also said that since this issue has taken an inter-state shape, the Union Government should depute its agencies to investigate the case in a timebound period and the guilty persons should be punished as per the law and till then the operations of Amazon portal should be kept suspended.

CAIT National President B.C. Bhartia and Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said that according to the information received on November 23, a person in Indore city of Madhya Pradesh lodged a complaint against Amazon to the Indore Collector in MP stating that his son had three months ago ordered poison through Amazon which was made available and he committed suicide.

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BUSINESS & TRADE

Petrol, diesel prices static as global oil situation under watch New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): Oil marketing companies have continued to provide relief to consumers from rising fuel prices post revision of duties by the central and state governments on Diwali eve.

IANS

Accordingly, petrol and diesel prices remained static for the 20th consecutive day on November 24 under the daily price revision mechanism followed by oil marketing companies.

So, the pump price of petrol in Delhi, which fell to Rs 103.97 a litre at 6 a.m. on the Diwali day on November 4 from the previous day's level of Rs 110.04 a litre, remained at the same level on November 24. The diesel price also remained unchanged in the capital at Rs 86.67 a litre.

Even with lower fuel prices, petrol continues to be the most expensive in Delhi among all the NCR cities as the state government has not revised VAT on the petroleum products so far.

In the financial capital Mumbai, petrol continues to be priced at Rs 109.98 a litre and diesel Rs 94.14 a litre.

Prices also remained static on November 24 in Kolkata where the price of petrol reduced by Rs 5.82 to Rs 104.67 per litre and that of diesel by Rs 11.77 to Rs 89.79 per litre in the first week of November.

Petrol price in Chennai also remained at Rs 101.40 per litre and diesel Rs 91.43 per litre.

Across the country as well, the price of the fuel largely remained unchanged on November 24, but the retail rates varied depending on the level of local taxes.

The global crude prices, which has touched a three-year high level of over $85 a barrel on several occasions in the past one month, has softened a bit now

to around $ 82 a barrel. Rise in the US inventory and release of strategic oil by few countries has pushed down crude prices, but OPEC’s decision on only gradual increase in production in December could raise crude prices further.

Before price cuts and pause, diesel prices have increased 30 out of the last 61 days taking up its retail price by Rs 9.90 per litre in Delhi.

Petrol prices have also risen in 28 of the 57 days taking up its pump price by Rs 8.85 per litre.

Since January 1, 2021, petrol and diesel prices have risen by more than Rs 26 a litre before the duty cuts.

The excise duty cut by the Centre on November 3 was the first such exercise since the onset of Covid pandemic. In fact, the government had revised excise duty on petrol and diesel sharply in March and again in May last year to mobilise additional resources for Covid relief measures.

The excise duty was raised by Rs 13 and Rs 16 per litre on petrol and diesel between March 2020 and May 2020 and was standing high at Rs 31.8 on diesel and Rs 32.9 per litre on petrol before finally the Centre decided on duty cut .

Goldman Sachs sees India's GDP at 9.1%, CPI at 5.8% for 2022

New Delhi, November 23 (IANS): India's gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to rise to 9.1 per cent in calendar year 2022, as compared to an estimated 8 per cent in 2021, Goldman Sachs said on November 23.

India's GDP contracted 7 per cent in 2020, Goldman Sachs said in a report titled 'Macro Outlook 2022'.

headline CPI (consumer price inflation) to increase to 5.8 per cent in 2022 from an estimated 5.2 per cent in 2021.

The forecast is based on a possibility of an increase in core inflation, since manufacturers pass on input costs to consumers as demand recovers with full economic re-opening.

"We expect consumption to be an important contributor to growth in 2022, as the economy fully re-opens driven by a notable improvement in the virus situation and adequate progress on vaccination," the investment banker said.

Average oil prices, it added, are expected to rise YoY in 2022.

"We also expect government capital spending to continue, see nascent signs of a private corporate capital expenditure recovery, and a revival in housing investment," it added.

It expects the RBI to hike repo rates by 75 basis points in calendar year 2022 (repo rate hike in Q2, 2022) following normalisation of the policy corridor (i.e. reverse repo hike of 40 basis points by Q1 2022).

Goldman Sachs forecast India's

"We expect the RBI to continue to exit the extraordinary monetary accommodation that has been in force since the beginning of the pandemic," the investment banker said.

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Only CNG, e-vehicles allowed to enter Delhi from Nov 27: Rai New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): To keep Delhi's air quality under check, only CNG-run and electric vehicles have been allowed entry into the city from November 27, while all the petrol and diesel transports will remain banned till December 3.

allowed entry into the national capital. All the other vehicles will remain banned till December 3," Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said in a press briefing after a high-level meeting was conducted to decide on measures needed to keep Delhi's air clean.

"As pollution level in Delhi is reducing leading to an improved Air Quality Index (AQI) similar to pre-Diwali days, the Delhi government has taken a slew of measures to maintain it. Entry of trucks and other vehicles, except for those involved in essential services, from outside Delhi has been stopped."

"Schools, colleges, libraries and other educational institutions will also be reopened from November 29 onwards," he said, adding that government offices would also be reopened from November 29 and everyone is advised to use public mode of transport.

"From November 27, only CNGrun and electric vehicles will be

Since Diwali, the AQI of the national capital has continued to hover around the upper end of the 'very poor' or 'severe' category.

The change in wind direction, stubble burning and bursting of firecrackers were cited to be the reason behind worsened air quality.

Air quality visibly improved in Delhi after strong surface winds swept through the city on November 21 with the last AQI being recorded at 280 by the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', then 401 and between 500 is considered 'severe'.

Over 13mn dependent on coal economy in India: Study New Delhi, November 22 (IANS): A study to assess the 'Socio-economic impacts of coal transition in India' released on November 22 has said that at a conservative estimate, more than 13 million people employed in coal mining, transport, power, sponge iron, steel, and bricks sectors will be impacted due to the impending coal transition.

The transition out of coal will have the highest impact on the people in the states of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana, the study by the National Foundation for India (NFI), a think tank, and launched

by Secretary, Ministry of Coal, Anil Jain, said.

The coal transition that formed the basis of the study is with reference to India's agreement at the recently concluded COP26 at Glasgow to a clause in the 'Glasgow Climate Pact' that calls for a phase down of unabated coal power while recognising the need for support towards just transitions.

The Pact also recognised that there is a need for accelerated action in this critical decade, on the basis of the best available

scientific knowledge and equity, reflecting common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities in the light of different national circumstances and in the context of sustainable development and efforts to eradicate poverty.

out coal.

"I really liked the idea of defining a coal transition worker that NFI introduces in their research. We need to identify the people, whose lives and careers will be impacted when transition happens, such that there is some quantification and targeting. It will give relief to local people and bring unions on board. Hence, it is not just a number but lives, which are in focus for this international (Glasgow) agreement. This will help in quantifying the magnitude of the problem in many senses," Jain said as he launched the study.

Executive Director NFI, Biraj Patnaik, said: "Some of India's most marginalised communities have suffered from the resource curse for close to a century. As we move towards a more climate resilient future, we must make sure they do not suffer the double whammy of an energy transition that leaves them behind yet again.

Our report from the Phase I of our work on climate change tells us that India has to develop its own idiom and approach to climate change and just transition."

Stating that the transition out of coal will have the highest impact on the people in the states of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana, the Study said, at least half of all the districts in Jharkhand (15) and West Bengal (11), 30 percent of districts in Odisha and Chhattisgarh (nine) will be impacted in the next 30-50 years, when India slowly phases

Phasing out of coal in these districts will have political, social, economic, and financial consequences, especially for communities where coal mining has been a way of life for the past 200 years.

The NFI study assessed there are 135 districts in India that have two or more assets dependent on coal, i.e., a coal mine, thermal power plant, sponge iron plant or a steel plant which are vulnerable to a coal phase down.

Jain said, India needs to prepare its economy, its workforce, and its communities for a post-coal future and "that planning needs to begin today".

India needs $10.1 tn investments for net zero emissions by 2070: CEEW New Delhi, November 18 (IANS): India would need cumulative investments of $10.1 trillion to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, according to an independent study released on November 18 by CEEW-CEF. The Council for Environment, Energy and Water - Centre for Energy Finance (CEEW-CEF) said these investments would help decarbonize India's power, industrial and transport sectors.

However, the first-of-its-kind

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study estimated that India could face a significant investment shortfall of $3.5 trillion to achieve its net-zero target.

Hence, investment support of $1.4 trillion in the form of concessional finance would be required from developed economies to mobilize foreign capital that bridges the gap, the CEEW-CEF study 'Investment Sizing India's 2070 Net-Zero Target' said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

had announced at the recently concluded climate change summit (COP26) India's aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. Net zero is a concept where any unit either prevents putting into or pulls out as much carbon from the atmosphere as it consumes; the unit can be a home, factory, state or a country.

It highlighted that the majority of the investments would be needed to transform India's power sector.

Such investments totaling $8.4

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ENERGY & RESOURCES

Punjab to have biofuel projects to curb stubble burning Chandigarh, November 23 (IANS): Invest Punjab has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Punjab State OfficeRenewable Gas Association of India for setting up biofuel projects and compressed biogas plants (Bio-CNG) that will help in reducing the greenhouse gas emissions generated by stubble burning.

The Renewable Gas Association of India (RGAI) was set up to offer solutions for improving and maximising renewable gas production and usage.

Responding to the signing of the pact, Subodh Kumar, former Executive Director with Indian Oil and RGAI President, said: "This will serve as an advocacy voice for the protection, preservation and promotion of renewable gas to create additional and diverse market demand for renewable gas."

Secretary, said they will encourage renewable gas produced from all feedstocks, using competing and sustainable technologies for all end-use applications.

"This will help to scale-up the potential primarily due to the abundance of unutilized agriculture feedstock -- an estimated 140 million tonnes of agricultural residues are generated annually -- supported by growing consumption of CNG and bio-CNG, the most costeffective fuel compared to petrol or diesel."

Ashish Kumar, Managing Director with VERBIO India Pvt Ltd, the company setting up India's largest biofuel plant in Punjab, said the renewable gas could emerge as one of the most promising industrial sectors with sustainable and an all-inclusive growth for Punjab.

Maninder Singh, RGAI General

Delhi's IGI Airport to become 'Net Zero Carbon Emission Airport' by 2030 New Delhi, November 23 (IANS): The national capital's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is set to become 'Net Zero Carbon Emission Airport' by 2030.

"At Delhi Airport, we are on a strong environment progress journey and we are confident to become 'net zero carbon emission' airport by 2030, following the 'Airport Carbon Accreditation' guidelines," said Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).

"Towards this direction, we have initiated various environmentally sustainable programmes, such as the introduction of 'TaxiBot', adoption of electric vehicles etc."

In technical terms, "carbon neutral" refers to a policy of not increasing carbon emissions and of achieving carbon reduction through offsets.

According to DIAL - a GMR-led consortium, which operates the airport is committed to run its business in an environmentallyfriendly and sustainable manner trillion would be required to significantly scale up generation from renewable energy and associated integration, distribution and transmission infrastructure. Another $1.5 trillion would have to be invested in the industrial sector for setting up green hydrogen production capacity to advance the sector's de-carbonization, the study added.

At COP26, India announced bold near-term and long-term climate targets. Our analysis finds that a transition to net-zero emissions would require mammoth investment support from developed countries. Developed countries must ramp up hard targets for climate finance over the coming years," Arunabha

by minimising adverse impact of its activities on the environment with necessary pollution control systems and safeguards.

DIAL has implemented various programmes at the airport such as use of renewable energy, development of green airport infrastructures and multiple passenger connectivity networks, energy conservation and efficiency improvements and stakeholder partnership programs.

Its energy efficient and environment friendly infrastructure includes electric vehicle charging facility, state-ofthe-art Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and Water Treatment Plant (WTP), energy efficient lighting systems, advanced fuel hydrant systems etc.

Ghosh, CEO, CEEW, said.

Programme lead and lead author of the study, Vaibhav Pratap Singh, said, "India's 2070 netzero target is a bold commitment that would not only contribute to global de-carbonization efforts but would also shape how businesses and jobs of the future would look like."

"Traditional domestic and foreign sources such as domestic banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), and debt capital markets -- both local and international -- would not be able to fund the massive investments they themselves would need.

Therefore, access to foreign capital on concessional terms would have to play a key role," Singh added.

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HEALTH

Stringent Covid curbs spark Covaxin offered only 50% protection against Covid during 2nd wave in India protests, riots across Europe

New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): Two-dose of Covaxin, developed

by Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, provided only 50 per cent protection against the Covid-19 infection during the second wave of the pandemic in India, according to the first real-world assessment published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal on November 24.

The study assessed 2,714 hospital workers from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, from April 15 to May 15, 2021, who were symptomatic and underwent RTPCR testing for Covid-19.

The Delta variant was the dominant strain in India during the study period, accounting for approximately 80 per cent of all confirmed Covid-19 cases.

"Our study offers a more

complete picture of how BBV152 performs in the field and should be considered in the context of Covid-19 surge conditions in India, combined with the possible immune evasive potential of the Delta variant," said Dr Manish Soneja, Additional Professor of Medicine at AIIMS in New Delhi.

Covaxin (BBV152) is a vero cellderived, inactivated whole-virion vaccine formulated with a novel adjuvant and administered in a two-dose regimen, 28 days apart.

In January 2021, BBV152 was approved for emergency use in India for people aged 18, while earlier in November, the World Health Organization (WHO) also added BBV152 to its list of approved emergency use Covid-19 vaccines

Covaxin shot developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with

the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-National Institute of Virology (NIV), in July announced the final results of its Phase-III clinical trials.

According to the company, the vaccine showed an efficacy rate of 77.8 percent against symptomatic Covid-19, which went up to 93.4 per cent against severe symptomatic infection.

In a study published in the journal The Lancet earlier in November, Bharat Biotech demonstrated Covaxin to be 77.8 percent effective against Covid-19, and 65.2 percent against Delta variant.

However, in the latest study researchers at AIIMS acknowledged that the vaccine effectiveness is lower than the efficacy reported by a recently published phase-III randomised control study of BBV152.

India logs 9,283 fresh Covid-19 cases, 437 deaths

IANS

total number to over 63.47 crore.

Meanwhile, the weekly positivity rate at 0.93 percent has remained less than 2 per cent for 61 days.

The daily positivity rate stands at 0.80 per cent, which has also remained below 2 per cent for 51 days and less than 3 per cent for 86 consecutive days.

New Delhi, November 24 (IANS): In 24 hours, India recorded 9,283 fresh Covid-19 cases and 437 fatalities, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on November 24.

Consequently, India's recovery rate stands at 98.33 per cent, highest since March 2020.

The new fatalities increased the overall death toll to 4,66,584.

The active caseload stands at 1,11,481. Active cases presently constitute 0.32 per cent of the country's total positive cases, the lowest since March 2020.

The recovery of 10,949 patients recently has increased the cumulative tally to 3,39,57,698.

Also in the same period, a total of 11,57,697 tests were conducted across the country, pushing the

Washington, November 24 (IANS): The global coronavirus caseload has topped 258.6 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 5.16 million and vaccinations to over 7.44 billion, according to Johns Hopkins University.

stood at 258,695,154, 5,165,134 and 7,448,434,896, respectively.

With the administration of 76,58,203 vaccine doses recently, the country's overall inoculation coverage has reached 118.44 crore.

This has been achieved through 1,22,71,257 sessions.

More than 21.65 crore balance and unutilised vaccine doses are still available with the States/UTs, the Ministry said in a statement.

Global Covid caseload tops 258.6 mn

In its latest update on November 24 morning, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload, death toll and the total number of vaccine doses administered

The US continues to be the worsthit country with the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 47,980,076 and 773,738, according to the CSSE. The second worst hit country in terms of cases is India (34,526,480 infections and 466,147 deaths), followed by Brazil (22,030,182 infections and 613,066 deaths).

The other worst countries with over 5 million cases are the UK

(9,985,529), Russia (9,238,330), Turkey (8,598,380), France (7,553,513), Iran (6,088,009), Germany (5,472,957), Argentina (5,317,633), Spain (5,103,315) and Colombia (5,052,733), the CSSE figures showed.

Nations with a death toll of over 100,000, are Mexico (292,524), Russia (261,526), Peru (200,894), the UK (144,579), Indonesia (143,753), Italy (133,330), Iran (129,177), Colombia (128,188), France (119,605) and Argentina (116,415).

Covid shutdown caused rise in selfadministered cosmetic procedures

New York, November 23 (IANS): Even as Covid lockdown kept most people indoors, many resorted to easily accessible products and web-based howto-videos for enhancing their attractiveness, resulting in disfigurement, said researchers warning that facial filler is not a do-it-yourself (DIY) project.

journal 'Clinics in Dermatology', researchers from Boston University discuss three patients, who developed complications following home-administered cosmetic procedures due to their desire to gain benefits from cosmetically enhancing procedures without professional assistance.

In a study published in the

To date, all patients suffer from

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IANS

continued abnormality in the pigmentation of the skin and/or scarring, some of which may be permanent.

While cosmetic procedures such as fillers have a myriad of possible complications, these procedures tend to be very safe with no to minimal side-effects when performed by licensed professionals.

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Brussels, November 23 (IANS): In response to the tightened Covid-19 measures, demonstrations were held across Europe recently, amid rising new cases and a new wave of the pandemic.

An estimated 35,000 people gathered in central Brussels on November 21 to protest against the reinforced measures, which include the mandatory use of the 'COVID Safe Ticket' (CST) and the obligation to wear face masks in areas where a CST is required, reports Xinhua news agency.

The demonstration took place near the Brussels North Station, with protesters brandishing banners saying "Together for Freedom" and "Resistance".

The police used water cannons and tear gas to subdue demonstrators who threw fireworks at them.

Forty-two people were detained and two arrested, local police said late on November 21 and the mayor of the City of Brussels, Philippe Close, "strongly condemned" the riots.

In Rotterdam, the demonstration against the Covid-19 restrictions started on November 19 when several hundred protesters gathered in the city centre throwing fireworks and setting cars -- among them at least one police vehicle -- ablaze.

The protest escalated into riot, and the police responded with water cannons and tear gas.

Around 50 people were arrested and four were injured and sent to hospital for treatment.

On November 22, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte condemned the riots and warned that everything possible would be done to punish the rioters.

"These are not corona protests, but pure violence by idiots, which has nothing to do with demonstrating," Rutte said after consulting his fellow ministers.

Across Greece, restaurants and cafes remained closed in protest against the government's new restrictions.

The measures have hit thousands of businesses, with many of them facing the risk of permanent closure, and further state

support is urgently needed, the Panhellenic Federation of Restaurants and Related Professions (POESE) said on November 22.

"We are shutting down today so that we will not have to shut down forever," protesters chanted during a rally held in the center of Athens.

"Catering stays closed throughout Greece" read banners on the closed doors of restaurants and cafes.

With the onset of the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere, the European Union (EU) fears a new wave of Covid-19 infections.

The level of concern for the situation in the EU was rated at 8.3 of 10, or "very high" on November 19 by the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

Wearing masks, hand-washing and ventilation are crucial non-pharmaceutical measures that must continue in order to fight Covid-19, and "it remains extremely important that we follow the non-pharmaceutical interventions", Stefan De Keersmaecker, European Commission spokesperson for Health, said on November 22.

French Minister of Labour Elisabeth Borne on November 22 called on companies to strictly respect barrier gestures, especially the mask mandate, in order to enable the country to face the fifth Covid-19 wave.

In light of the worsening situation, France's Vaccine Strategy Orientation Council (COSV) on November 22 suggested that a booster shot for all adults should be considered.

In the face of the growing pandemic, Germany's federal states have recently tightened their respective Covid-19 measures.

The states of Bavaria and Saxony have cancelled their Christmas markets this year, and Hesse decided that only those vaccinated or recovered from Covid-19 will be allowed to enter indoor areas of restaurants, sports facilities and cultural institutions.

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INDIA NEWS

HEALTH

CSIRO health experts update on Omicron

C

SIRO's health experts have warned of more serious coronavirus strains coming out. Dr Rob Grenfell, a public health physician, is the Special Advisor Health for the CSIRO. He was Director of CSIRO Health and Biosecurity for much of the COVID-19 pandemic, while also leading a broad portfolio of research covering nutrition, eHealth, medtech, diagnostics and biosecurity. He has played a significant role in Australia’s response to COVID-19, which he continues to do with CSIRO and the Grampians local Public Health Unit in Victoria.

CSIRO Special Health Advisor Dr Rob Grenfell said: "It's expected the coronavirus will self-select for strains that will counter our efforts to control it. That means more infectious strains are likely to come out. This is because we've been trying to avoid the spread through our public health measures, like lockdowns and mask-wearing.

“It’s also anticipated a variant may emerge in the future that will have some degree of resistance against the current vaccines.

This risk could be reduced if we have an effective global vaccine operation.

"The pandemic will not end until all countries have achieved high levels of vaccination.”

“The Omicron variant emerged in southern Africa sometime in early November. It has a multitude of mutations which make it a variant of concern, because those mutations alter the spike protein.

The spike protein is important to the virus because it's the way that it binds to our respiratory cells to infect us. It's this protein that the vaccines target," he further said.

“Omicron has also been detected in people who have had COVID-19 previously.

“At this stage the cases detected seem to have had mild disease.

However, the virus is now rapidly

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becoming the most common variant in southern Africa and has already seeded across many other countries in the world.

“It appears that this variant could be more infectious than the dominant Delta strain.

“The severity of this virus, as compared to Delta, is unknown at this time. Researchers will be closely following the people who contract Omicron and monitoring how ill they get.

“Even if it is less severe than Delta, this is a numbers game – if many people get infected, even with a low hospitalisation rate, it still means a lot of people ending up in hospital.”

“At this stage, we expect the vaccines will still prevent serious illness from Omicron. Studies are kicking off to determine if antibodies generated by vaccination or infection neutralise this virus, and we should see some results in the next week.

“Scientists have created several platforms for vaccines against coronaviruses during this pandemic that are very effective and safe, and these can be modified to adjust for variants.

Already, Oxford (AstraZeneca), Pfizer and Moderna are looking at ways to modify their vaccines if necessary.

“Australian authorities are reviewing booster shot timeframes to see whether they should be brought forward to better protect against Omicron.

Until that review is finished, you should get your booster shot as soon as you’re eligible, which is currently six months after your second vaccine dose.

“While there’s still a lot to learn about Omicron, scientists have been working all through the pandemic to develop additional tools in our line of defence against the pandemic that will continue to be useful here. For example, CSIRO scientists, working with Qantas and the

University of Queensland, showed that wastewater testing on international flights can detect signals of the virus before passengers even show symptoms – providing valuable data for public health agencies.”

CSIRO scientist and COVID-19 expert Dr Seshadri Vasan said: “The latest variant of concern, Omicron, has been reported in many countries including Australia.

“Of the 5.6 million coronavirus sequences on the world’s largest repository, ‘GISAID’, 182 are Omicron as of 30 November 2021 (5am Geneva time). 68% of these sequences are from samples collected on or after 9 November in South Africa. Of the remaining, 19 are from Botswana, 12 are from the Netherlands, five each from Australia (4 New South Wales; 1 Northern Territory) and Hong Kong, four each from England and Italy, two from Canada, and one each from Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Israel, Réunion, and Spain.

“In addition to these 15 countries, confirmed cases have been reported in several others, but the sequences have not yet been uploaded to GISAID. “As this variant of concern currently has a reproduction number above the threshold of 1 required to spread (preliminary reports place it between 1.3 and 1.6), and this variant contains several mutations in regions where antibody binding is known to occur, there could be potential for this virus to evade existing immunity provided by current vaccines.

“This variant has a constellation of 34 mutations in the spike protein that has the receptor binding domain. Several of these mutations we have encountered previously, for instance, the 69-70 deletion present in Alpha; the K417N found in Beta and Gamma; the N501Y common to Alpha, Beta

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Dr Rob Grenfell

A representation of the Omicron spike (mutation positions shown as coloured balls). Credit - Dr Michael Kuiper, CSIRO

Dr Seshadri Vasan

and Gamma; and the T478K seen in Delta. We are also studying new mutations, such as E484A and G496S, and their interplay with the others.

CSIRO’s biomolecular modelling and bioinformatics teams are supporting these efforts, which are led from our Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness.

“We need to study these changes in combination, not just rely on the fact that many have occurred previously, in individual variants.

We cannot predict the variant’s impact on the efficacy of vaccines and therapeutics unless we test them experimentally and this will take us to early 2022 to get the full picture. It will require a global effort and we have been collaborating with our Australian, South African and other partners to play our part in combating this virus as it evolves.

“We are continuing to support global ‘vaccine matching’ efforts, which involves tweaking the vaccines so they protect against a new variant of concern. In the meantime, those who are double or triple vaccinated can still expect some level of protection, so it is important to achieve high vaccination coverage and follow sensible precautions such as masks, social distancing, and meeting virtually or outdoors rather than in confined spaces.”

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SPORTS

Cricket Australia forced Cummins Shane Warne injured into 'confession' before handing in bike accident him captaincy reins: Reports

IANS

about a lot of different things.

So we both left it feeling really comfortable."

A five-member selection panel comprising of CA chief selector George Bailey, selector Tony Dodemaide, CA board member Mel Jones, CEO Nick Hockley and chairman Richard Freudenstein selected Cummins for the top job.

Sydney, Nov 28 (IANS): Australian Test skipper Pat Cummins has revealed that Cricket Australia had forced him into 'confession' before handing him the job of leading the side for the Ashes series beginning at the Gabba on December 8.

The pace bowling stalwart was appointed skipper of the Australian Test team after Tim Paine voluntarily stepped down from the post following a sexting scandal involving a former Cricket Tasmania staffer. Paine has since taken an indefinite break from cricket.

Cummins, who was appointed Australia's 47th Test captain, becoming the first fast bowler to lead the side since Ray Lindwall

65 years ago, was reportedly asked to "divulge any secrets he had before being appointed skipper", news.com.au reported on Sunday.

Australian cricket has been ravaged by two major scandals in recent years, the first involving former skipper Steve Smith during the tour of South Africa in 2018 and now the sexting scandal involving Paine.

Cummins when asked during an interview with ABC sport presenter Corbin Middlemas whether the Cricket Australia (CA) panel asked him "anything like a confession" before being appointed skipper, replied, "Yeah, there were a couple of questions. I won't go into detail. It was a really good open discussion. We talked

Cummins also allayed fears that lack of red-ball experience this year would affect the team's chances in the Ashes series. Several top Australian cricketers including Cummins himself, besides Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, David Warner and Steve Smith, haven't had much competitive red-ball exposure for more than six months, either internationally or in First-class cricket due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

But Cummins said that with the success in the ICC T20 World Cup, the squad was ready for the summer ahead. "(We've had) a really good hitout," Cummins said after Saturday's first training session as skipper.

"We were able to simulate match intensity really well. We had a big bowl, us bowlers, two big spells.

If the Test match was in the next couple of days, we'd be ready to go."

Gillespie compares Alex Carey to Australian great Gilchrist IANS

Queensland on Sunday, with Gillespie saying that it should cement his place in the Australian side as a wicketkeeper.

"I can't speak for the Australian selectors and what their criteria is, but Alex Carey ticks a lot of boxes," Gillespie said on SEN SA Breakfast on Monday. "He's got international experience, he's got experience around the world, he's captained Australia, he's performed very strongly in other formats of the game and he's been in and around that Australian set up for a while now."

Gillespie even drew comparison with Australian great and former team-mate Adam Gilchrist, who despite debuting late in Test cricket, had an enviable record.

Sydney, Nov 29 (IANS): Former Australian pace bowler Jason Gillespie feels wicketkeeperbatter Alex Carey "ticks all the boxes" for the 30-year-old to be included in the home team for the Ashes series, beginning at the Gabba on December 8.

following the sexting scandal involving a former Cricket Tasmania staffer.

The wicketkeeper's slot in the Australian team has fallen vacant after Tim Paine decided to take an indefinite break from cricket

Carey, representing South Australia, smashed a blistering ton in the Marsh Cup against

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Gillespie, who is also the South Australia cricket coach -- the side Carey plays for domestically -- says, now is the right time for Carey to "take the next step".

"For me, there's a lot of synergy between when Adam Gilchrist was first selected just shy of his 29th birthday and when he was in and around the One-Day set-up for years and Alex Carey now who's just turned 30, he's in the prime of his career," Gillespie said.

"I say get him in, he's ready to go, his game is in great order, and he will do a fine job for Australia if given the opportunity," concluded Gillespie.

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Sydney, Nov 29 (IANS): Australian spin bowling legend Shane Warne has reportedly got injured in a bike accident on Sunday, and though the injuries are not serious, he went to hospital as a precaution.

Sydney Morning Herald, quoting News Corp said on Monday that, "Warne was riding his bike with his son Jackson when he fell off and slid for more than 15 metres.

Shane Warne says he went to hospital as a precaution."

According to the report, the 52-year-old who has played 145 Tests and is the second-highest wicket-taker in the longest format of the game at 708, avoided serious injury, "but woke up on Monday morning still in pain".

"Fearing he may have broken his foot and/or damaged his hip, he went to hospital as a precaution," the report added.

"I'm a bit battered and bruised and very sore," Warne told News Corp.

Warne is in the Fox Sports' commentary team for the Ashes series beginning at the Gabba on December 8.

Recently, Warne made critical remarks over Steve Smith being made vice-captain of the Australian Test side for the Ashes, saying that while the former captain can return to the leadership role, David Warner would remain suspended from captaining or vice-captaining

IANS

his country again during his cricketing career.

Smith, who has served a one-year ban for his involvement in balltampering in 2018, was appointed vice-captain of the Australian Test side ahead of the Ashes series, beginning on December 8.

In the aftermath of the balltampering episode, also called 'Sandpaper-gate', that took place during the third Test against South Africa at Newlands in Cape Town in 2018, the then Australian skipper Smith, his deputy David Warner and team-mate Cameron Bancroft were banned for different periods of time.

In addition to a one-year suspension, a two-year leadership ban was also imposed on Smith, while Warner, who was the then vice-captain, also received a year ban, as well as a lifetime leadership ban.

Warne is not happy with the dichotomy in punishment for the same crime.

Giles backs Root to halt play if England players face racial abuse during Ashes Brisbane, Nov 28 (IANS): Ashley Giles, the director of England men's cricket on Sunday said that he would back captain Joe Root in halting play if any racist behaviour was detected among crowds during the upcoming Ashes series in Australia.

The oldest rivalry in cricket will resume with Australia hosting England in the first Test at the Gabba in Brisbane on December 8. England's Barmy Army and the Aussie fans are expected to be at their loudest. There are concerns that crowds can be involved in some racial abuse following the recent racism row involving Azeem Rafiq.

"I'd certainly trust Joe Root to do what's right. If he chose to bring the team into the middle of the field and stop the game while any incident is investigated then absolutely," Giles told reporters in a virtual interaction from Australia.

"I don't think any of our players should be subject to any abuse actually, but discrimination and racism particularly," he added.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) published a 12-point,

game-wide action plan on Friday to tackle racism and all forms of discrimination in the game, following Rafiq's testimony to MPs earlier this month.

One of the key parts of the plan was a "full review of dressing room culture in all men's and women's professional teams, both domestic and international."

Talking about the current group of England players Giles said that his experiences of this dressing room are very positive.

"It feels like we have a real diversity in our playing group, a group that works incredibly well together, supports each other, and in most instances -- not all instances -- appreciate each other's differences.

"But, saying that, we clearly need to make sure that everyone has the same opportunities to enjoy the game and play the game.

And if listening to the lived experiences of Azeem and clearly they're the lived experiences of others, we've got to do much better. And I'm sure we will do much better. Discrimination of any form just isn't acceptable," he added.

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Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

SPORTS

Paramjeet Kumar becomes first Indian Saurav Ghosal clinches para-powerlifter to bag medal at Worlds Malaysian Open IANS

Para-Powerlifting C'ships 2021 Parmjeet's medal-winning lift was 158kg He is a #KheloIndia Athlete training at @SAI_Gandhinagar Many congratulations," SAI Media tweeted.

Parmjeet has earlier won a bronze medal in the 49kg category at the 2018 Asian Para Games in Indonesia. He is a resident of Haripur Khalsa village, 22 km from Ludhiana, Punjab.

Tbilisi (Georgia), Nov 28 (IANS): Paramjeet Kumar became the first Indian para-powerlifter to clinch a medal in the World Para Powerlifting Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia on Sunday.

Paramjeet, competing in the 49kg category, lifted 158 kg to grab the Bronze medal while Omar Shami Qarada of Egypt won the gold medal after lifting 174kg.

Viatnam's Van Cong Le won the silver medal with a total of 170kg.

"History created for India in

Para @Powerlifting by Paramjit Kumar of Punjab as he wins #bronze at the ongoing World Para Powerlifting Championship in Tbilisi, Georgia. Paramjit's 158KG Lift has created history!

Cheer for @ParalympicIndia team as the championship continues!"

President of the Paralympic Committee of India, Deepa Malik tweeted.

"Parmjeet Kumar wins 1st medal (BRONZE) in the men's up to 49kg category at the ongoing World

A ten-member Indian Parapowerlifting squad including, Manreet Singh (41 kg, Punjab), Sakina Khatun (45 kg Karnataka), Raj Kumari (55 kg, Delhi), Geeta (67kg, Haryana), and Bhawana Sharma (86 kg, Rajasthan) are competing in'the women's category while Parmjit Kumar (49 kg, Punjab), Ashok (65 kg, Haryana), Jai Deep (73 kg, Haryana), Sudhir (88 kg, Haryana,) and Sachin Chaudhary (107 kg Uttar Pradesh) are participat'ng in men's category.

This match is going to shock MMA fans across the globe': Ritu Phogat beaming with confidence IANS

unturned in preparing for this matchup.

"I've been focused on the finals for a very long time and I've trained for countless hours for the past two years. Victory is closer than I can imagine and I plan to grab it with both hands. This match is crucial for my career and India's reputation. India has never had a female MMA champion in the past and now I have the power to change the narrative and place an Indian woman on the global MMA stage. I will try my best to make India proud," said Ritu.

Singapore, Nov 27 (IANS): Following her incredible victory over the Philippines' Jenelyn Olsim in the ONE Women's Atomweight World Grand Prix semi-final, 27-year-old Ritu Phogat is now ready to face her ultimate challenge in this prestigious tournament on December 3.

The No. 4-ranked atomweight Ritu Phogat is scheduled to face former ONE Atomweight Muay Thai and Kickboxing World Champion Stamp Fairtex of Thailand in the ONE Women's Atomweight World Grand Prix Championship final on Friday.

Ritu plans to leave no stone

Her opponent, Stamp Fairtex, is widely regarded as the most dangerous striker in the ONE Championship atomweight division. Sharing her thoughts on how to deal with such an opponent, Ritu said: "Stamp is definitely a formidable opponent but she doesn't have the kind of wrestling experience and background that I have built over the last seven years. I am certain that my superior wrestling background will give me an edge. Also, I've been training extensively and pushing through my wins and my losses, and I plan to make 3rd December an extraordinary match in MMA history.

"My improved striking capability and game plan will be on display

for everyone to see inside the circle. I assure you that this match will be the watcher's delight and a dreamer's archetype. Hopefully, I will be spoken about as the first Indian woman to breakthrough on the global MMA stage."

The importance of the matchup cannot be overstated, which is why Ritu is pushing herself to the limit in her training camp.

"It is always effort over excuses for me. Every match and every opponent comes with a different set of challenges, for which I train hard. When I am at the gym training for 5 or 6 hours, all I am thinking of is sharpening my skills so that I can beat my opponents, no amount of sweat or fatigue can interfere or deter me.

I can't sit until I sweat, for me the grind leads to growth. The harder I train, the more fuelled up I am!

I feel restless if I haven't trained enough."

On her response to praise coming from MMA superstar Conor McGregor, who praised Ritu on social media,'The Indian Tigress' said: "I was thrilled and extremely elated to be praised by him. It gave me more confidence to show what I am capable of, in the circle.

When Conor McGregor gets back after his recovery, he will still be a champion as he has always been and will be!"

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Squash C'ships title

IANS

Kuala Lumpur, Nov 27 (IANS): India's Saurav Ghosal clinched the 2021 Malaysian Open Squash Championships after beating Colombia's Miguel Rodriguez in the men's singles final, here on Saturday.

Seeded two and ranked 15th in the world, Ghosal outclassed top seed Rodriguez 11-7, 11-8, 13-11 in 55 minutes to seal the 10th PSA title of his career. With this, he became the 1?st Indian to be crowned the Malaysian Open Champion - a PSA World Tour Bronze event.

Ghosal was in complete control of the final right from the beginning.

He won the first game 11-7 before clinching the second game 11-8.

The Colombian did give the Indian a tough fight in the third game, but the Ghosal maintained his composure to clinch it 13-11 and bag the title.

"Obviously it feels great. I beat some good players along the way. The final was a high-quality match. As much as the third game, the second was tough too as I was trailing 0-7. The victory is a reward for all the hard work I've put in," said an elated Ghosal after the win.

It was Ghosal's first PSA Tour

title in three years. He last won a PSA title in the 2018 Kolkata International Open.

The 35-year old Ghosal made it through to the final relatively untroubled as he won all three of his matches by a 3-0 margin. On the other hand, Rodriguez came close to falling to a shock defeat against Japan's Ryosei Kobayashi in the second round, eventually coming through to win 12-10 in the fifth.

World TT C'ships: India finish campaign without any medal IANS

Houston (US), Nov 28 (IANS): India's campaign at the 2021 World Table Tennis Championships Finals ended without any medal after the women's and mixed doubles teams lost in the quarterfinals, here.

In mixed doubles, Tokyo Olympians Manika Batra and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran lost 1-3 (5-11, 2-11, 11-7, 9-11) to Japan's Hina Hayata and Tomokazu Harimoto and crashed out in the quarter-finals on Saturday.

They had earlier beaten China's Wang Manyu and US's Kanak Jha and the Puerto Rican team of Adriana Diaz and Brian Afanador en route to the quarters.

Meanwhile, Manika and her women's doubles partner Archana Kamath also bowed out of their event after suffering a disappointing 0-3 loss (1-11, 6-11, 8-11) against Sarah de Nuette and Xia Lian Ni of Luxembourg in the final eight.

Batra and Kamath made it to the quarters with wins over Belgium's Margo Degraef and Nathalie Marchetti and Hungary's Dora

Madarasz and Georgina Pota in the earlier rounds.

With losing semi-finalists getting bronze medals at the World Table Tennis Championships, both the Indian teams in action on Saturday were just one win away from confirming a podium finish at the event.

Notably, India have won only two medals at the world table tennis championships, both at the inaugural edition in 1926.

"End of a dream run here in Houston which was certainly one of my best ever world championships so far," tweeted G Sathiyan, who was the most successful Indian singles player at the event, reaching the round of 32 in the men's event.

"Though it was disheartening not to make it after coming agonisingly close to a historic medal and also for missing out closely to break into top16 in singles for the first time, nevertheless was certainly a terrific tournament and lots to learn from," he added.

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INDIA NEWS

IIT to preserve yoga, classical music, Sanskrit, traditional medicine IANS

incubators and state-of-theart research laboratories for advancements in multidisciplinary research and education in the areas of healthcare, nano-bio-materials, micro/nano electronics, and energy, Pradhan said.

ART & CULTURE

Of the pandemic and other miseries IANS

He further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his convocation speech in 2020 had suggested IIT Guwahati to set up a Centre for Indian Knowledge System.

He expressed his happiness that the same has been established in quick time for preserving, documenting and sharing ancient and traditional Indian knowledge.

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tate-of-the-art Centre for Nanotechnology (CNT) and Indian Center for Knowledge Systems (CIKS) were inaugurated on Sunday at IIT, Guwahati.

At the Nano technology centre, research will be carried out in the areas of nano-bio-materials, Micro-Nano Electronics and Energy.

The CNT aims at meeting future challenges and augmenting academic partnerships with industry in Nanotechnology.

The major funding for the Centre, which included Rs 37 crore for the building, apart from equipment, was obtained from the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Union Government.

It will host 25 advanced laboratories that will focus on advancements in multidisciplinary, scientific and translational research and is equipped with a Class-100 clean room facilities integrated with state-of-the-art fabrication, characterisation and testing laboratories.

The CNT presently hosts two Centres-for-Excellence sponsored by (MeitY) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) along with an Incubator BioNEST sponsored by Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), Department of Biotechnology, Central Government.

CNT is thus a good example of synergy among various ministries of the Central Government.

The key outcomes expected from the Centre for Nanotechnology include nano-enabled healthcare, energy harvesting, and LED prototypes, devices and technologies, start-ups/ incubation ecosystem, high-end R&D outputs, capacity building of highly skilled manpower in the area of nanofabrication and nanoelectronics, among others.

The CIKS will focus on preserving, documenting and sustaining the

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knowledge that is unique to India.

The top priorities include Indian classical music, Yoga, Sanskrit, traditional medicines, temple architecture, ceramic tradition and special agricultural practices of North-East India, herbal plants of north-east as health food and metal work of Assam.

Scholars from diverse backgrounds will be encouraged to participate in the new CIKS's interdisciplinary research and education programs, enabling them to evolve practices and technologies in varied areas for sustainable growth and development.

Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday visited IIT Guwahati and inaugurated the state-of-theart CNT and CIKS as well as two hostels at the Institute.

He also released a book on NEP 2020 implementation at the institute.

Speaking on the occasion, Pradhan congratulated IIT Guwahati for achieving excellent rankings in various international and national ranking systems and appreciated the efforts of IIT Guwahati for creating an ecosystem for research and education as well as focusing on overall development of the northeastern region.

He also said that IIT Guwahati has to play an important role in areas like, disaster management, biodiversity-based research, green energy development, strengthening knowledgebased economy and driving entrepreneurship among the students.

The Minister also called upon the students and faculty associated with the institute to synergise technology and knowledge to create a vibrant ecosystem of solution-centric innovation.

In this era of interconnected world, the centre for nanotechnology at IIT Guwahati will host a number of CoEs,

Pradhan said that Srimant Sankardev was a great scholar who gave new thought and shape to civilisation and humanity.

The glorious Ahom culture, the mighty Brahmaputra, the blessed land of Ma Kamakhya and greats like Lachit Borphukan should serve as an inspiration for students at IIT Guwahati, he added.

"During the COVID-19, innovation and technology aided us with PPT kits, helped us with development and production of vaccine and represented the resilience of this country. Institutes like IIT Guwahati have to play an important role in leveraging innovation for societal good," he noted.

Pradhan said that during the COP26, Modi outlined the 'Panchamrit vision' to fight climate change.

"Our north eastern states can become the hub of green energy development with IIT Guwahati playing an important role," he added.

Congratulating IIT Guwahati, Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu said that the Institute should focus on entrepreneurship and produce job creators and not only job seekers.

Institutes like IIT Guwahati should also focus on developing new agricultural technologies to help double farmers' income, he suggetsed.

Pegu further requested IIT Guwahati to mentor other educational institutions in the region and also develop modules for training of teachers.

MP Queen Oja expressed her happiness for getting such advanced research facilities in northeast and expected IIT Guwahati to contribute in the overall development of the region.

Constructed at a cost of Rs 132 crore, the new Disang hostel adds another 1,000 rooms to the existing hostel capacity of IIT Guwahati. Dikhow hostel is the first hostel in the campus specifically for the accommodation of project staff.

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rtist Ranjan Kaul is presenting his fourth solo exhibition titled 'Ringside View' that tells the story of contemporary times through the painter's eyes at Open Palm Court Gallery, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi (on till November 18).

Ranjan Kaul continues to evolve his nuanced oeuvre that chronicles and portrays quotidian life by infusing it with drama, colour and emotion. He portrays real-life stories not merely as an active participant, but as an empathetic and perceptive observer.

In this exhibition, he showcases not only the time of the pandemic but the pre-and post-pandemic periods as well. The plight of migrant labourers, who travelled thousands of kilometres from the metropolis to their homes and are now back -- once again in search of a livelihood. He has depicted them through a series of artworks like 'Flight to Survival' and 'Rootless', and their life on the footpath as in 'Home and Supper'.

In his work 'An Arm and a Leg for a Job', migrant labourers have been shown in post-pandemic times sitting vacantly in the big city, jobless, lost, defeated.

During the lockdown, cars gathered dust, salons downed their shutters. While 'Shine' comments on the futility of the fascination with material want, 'Beauty' draws attention to the growing obsession with the outward self. 'Beauty' also looks at how the real persona is morphing into a virtual, false entity with the widespread use of social media - the reflection in the mirror is a new reality, while the 'real' is reduced to a mere shadow.

With the virus redefining physical

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spaces, 'Ringside' depicts the transformation in human behaviour - with people on a short fuse, a minor road accident leading to a major skirmish while onlookers watch the incident.

Issues related to women safety on deserted streets with the easing of lockdown restrictions are another concern that kindles the artist's imagination in 'Twilight Zone'. 'Holding On' portrays the resilience of women in the face of tribulations.

Lockdown has led to group isolation and people's disconnection with the world outside the bubble. In 'Cocktail Party', an evening of highsociety gathering is depicted with palpable tension in the air, even as the people inside are unaware of being watched from the window. The work is also a comment on the increasing invasions of privacy. The postpandemic series, 'Fragmented', depicts the grave fallout on the human psyche and mental health.

The curatorial advisor for the exhibition is Aakshat Sinha.

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BOOKS & LITERATURE

Amitav Ghosh's 'Jungle Nama' to be a stage production soon IANS

by the artist Salman Toor. Now, Audible, a leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling has come up with an audio edition of the folktale performed by Ali Sethi.

There is something about the Sunderbans that makes Ghosh visit them again and again. "It is a fascinating and rich landscape, teeming with stories of all kinds, What is of greatest interest to me is that these stories are often about non-humans, as well as humans - just as is the case with Jungle Nama," says this recipient of the Padma Shri Honour.

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few days back, when author Amitav Ghosh was doing an event for his book 'Jangal Nama' in Mestre, Italy, some of Ali Sethi's songs were played. Later, everyone wanted to know where they could get them. "We are now actually developing a stage performance of 'Jungle Nama' with the help of the University of Pennsylvania," Ghosh tells IANS. 'Jungle Nama' (HarperCollins) is Amitav Ghosh's verse adaptation of an episode from the legend of Bon Bibi, a tale popular in the villages of the Sundarbans, which also lies at the heart of the novel 'The Hungry Tide' (2004). It is the story of the avaricious rich merchant Dhona, the poor lad

Dukhey, and his mother; it is also the story of Dokkhin Rai, a mighty spirit who appears to humans as a tiger, of Bon Bibi, the benign goddess of the forest, and her warrior brother, Shah Jongoli.

The original print version of this legend, dating back to the 19th century, is composed in a Bengali verse meter known as dwipodi poyar. The book is a free adaptation of the legend, told entirely in a poyar-like meter of 24 syllable couplets that replicate the cadence of the original.

The first-ever book-in-verse

by Amitav Ghosh, 'Jungle Nama' evokes the wonder of the Sundarbans through its poetry and is accompanied by artwork

intervened, and the Whitney show was postponed, so it became possible for him to take on this project. And the experience of collaborating with him was astonishing; he has created some truly marvellous images for the book," says Ghosh, winner of the 54th Jnanpith award, India's highest literary honour.

Talk to him about the unique collaboration with Salman Toor and Ali Sethi, and the author who has known Toor since he was a student at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, which is a few blocks from his house, remembers that it was evident even back then that he was immensely gifted, and in the years since he has proved this again and again.

As for Ali Sethi, the author has known even longer - he took a class with Ghosh back in 2003, when the author was doing a stint at Harvard. Remembering that back then he (Sethi) was more a writer than a musician, Ghosh says, "But in the years since he has grown into a real star, with millions of followers on Youtube, and sold-out concerts all over the place. But he remains a very cerebral, thoughtful person, so he was able to completely enter the spirit of 'Jungle Nama'. The songs he has composed for the audiobook are at once catchy, and musically interesting."

"So his was the first name that came to my mind when I was thinking of an artist to work with.

But by that time Salman had become incredibly successful, with a one-man show coming up at the Whitney Museum in New York - something that is almost unprecedented for an artist of his age. But then the pandemic

"Fortunately I didn't have to get into that part of it. But I do indeed think that we will be hearing books much more in years to come. This has already become a major part of the book market,

As far as the audiobook goes, it was Ali Sethi, and his team, along with the HarperCollins tech team that dealt with Audible.

and I think this will continue," feels Ghosh, whose latest book 'The Nutmeg's Curse: Parables for a Planet in Crisis' (Penguin Random House India) released in October.

The author, who has been writing on the subject of climate crisis in many of his works, and even pointed out in 'The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable' that not enough contemporary novels were addressing climate change as a central issue of our time feels that the principal reason for the lack of media coverage of the climate crisis, around the world, is the fact mainstream media is largely controlled by big corporations and billionaires, who have a vested interest in playing down the seriousness of the crisis. "Of course there are some honourable exceptions," he adds.

Even as the world continues to battle the Corona Pandemic, Ghosh says that the recently concluded COP 26 meeting in Glasgow shows, unfortunately, that governments have yet to wake up in relation to the seriousness of the planetary crisis. "This meeting seems to have got even less done than those before if that is even possible."

Tata Literature Live! Literary Oxford Bookstore supports Emile Guimet Prize for Asian Literature 2021 Awards for 2021 announced

IANS

Surrendra Group, extended the support of Oxford Bookstore through the Apeejay Trust towards the award, administered by the Emile Guimet Museum in Paris, at a celebratory evening in the French capital.

Established in 1921, Oxford Bookstore is the best equipped 'base-camp' for journeys of the mind offering its patrons the widest range of outstanding titles and consistently courteous and informed service for close to a century.

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wo Indians - Deepa Anappara and Geetanjali Shree - are among five nominees for this years 5,000 euro Emile Guimet Prize for Asian Literature for works translated into French, an award that is supported by the Oxford Book Store.

The other nominees are Hideo Yakuda and Mitsuyo Kakuta from Japan and NG Kim Chew from Malaysia. The winner will be announced on January 20, 2022.

The National Museum of Asian

Arts - Guimet announced the shortlist for the fifth edition of the prize with jury members Regine Hatchondo, President of the National Book Center (CNL); writer and essayist Pascal Bruckner; eminent French author Olivier Rolin; Guillaume Husson, General Delegate of the Syndicat de la Librairie Francaise; writer Jean-Claude Pastor and Sophie Makariou, President of the Guimet Museum.

Priti Paul, Director, Apeejay

Today, with stores in major metros, India's first of its kind tea boutique, 'Cha Bar', India's only bookstore to curate multiple literary festivals like Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival, Apeejay Bangla Sahitya Utsob and Hindi Sahitya Utsav, Oxford Bookstore offers booklovers access to the very best in publishing, enhanced by a variety of events that heralds books, visual and performing arts and celebrate scripts.

New Delhi, Nov 22 (IANS): The Tata Literature Live! Literary Awards for 2021 were announced at the finale of the festival which was held online from November 18 to 21.

The First Book Award -Fiction was won by 'A Death in Shonagachhi' by Rijula Das (Pan Macmillan). 'Asoca: A Sutra'

by Irwin Allan Sealy (Penguin Random House) won the Book of the Year Award (Fiction) while 'Landscapes of Loss: The Story of an Indian Drought' by Kavitha Iyer (HarperCollins) won the First Book Award in the Non-Fiction category.

'Born A Muslim: Some Truths About Islam in India' by Ghazala Wahab (Aleph) won the Book of the Year Award -- Non-Fiction.

'Pandemonium: The Great Indian

IANS

Banking Tragedy' by Tamal Bandyopadhyay (Roli Books) was adjudged the Business Book of the Year.

HarperCollins won the Publisher of the Year Award.

Be it through books or fine teas it abides by its motto -- Much more than a bookstore -- at every Bookstore.

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TRAVEL

Plan your winter getaway Delight in India’s fascinating kaleidoscope of experiences, rediscover the many facets of the country.

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he festive season brings with it much cheer aside from the usual celebrations as India welcomes international travellers once again. Re-connect with friends and family you haven’t had an opportunity to meet in the past year while exploring the rich heritage and diverse geographical beauty of India.

For those looking to chase the winter sun, Goa is the perfect destination for a touch of sea, sand and susegad. Bond with family in the seclusion of an exclusive heritage bungalow or villa or lounge to the sound of the waves with friends at a resort of your choice. For a taste of life like the Maharajas and Maharanis of yore, gift the memories of your loved one of a lifetime with a royal getaway to the many authentic palaces across Rajasthan.

For wellness enhanced by the

IANS

crisp mountain air, head to the Yoga Capital of the world – Rishikesh or explore the rolling tea gardens of Darjeeling, where one can indulge in myriad local experiences.

From serene backwaters to coffee plantations, culinary delights and mountain adventures that will satiate thrill-seekers, delight in India’s fascinating kaleidoscope of experiences, rediscover the many facets of the country.

Taj, Vivanta, SeleQtions and amã Stays & Trails feature properties across the length and breadth of the country, be it the breathtaking vistas of the snow-laden mountain ranges in Srinagar or the quaint town of Shimla, introduce your loved ones to India’s white Christmas in style this December or on the sunny shores of Goa.

Mid Season Global Holiday Trends 2021 IANS

recent long weekend of Guru Nanak Jayanti saw the majority of bookings for Varanasi, Jaipur, Goa, Puri and Alibag.

Top holidays in India/ Most booked destinations Diwali: Kochi, Jaipur, Goa, Visakhapatnam and Agra Ganesh Chaturthi: Kochi, Jaipur, Varanasi, Visakhapatnam and

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ravel is back in a big way and consumers are excited to make up for lost holidays over the past two years. With a steady rise in vaccination coverage across geographies, combined with the easing of restrictions across regions, travellers have embraced the spirit of travel wholeheartedly, especially during holidays and festive long weekends in India, the US, the UK and Europe.

As per OYO’s booking analysis, consumers across the world are increasingly opting for short-haul destinations and making lastminute bookings over planned trips. Across Europe, summer travel saw the highest bounce back in demand. Whereas, Americans travelled the most during the Labor Day long weekend of September 4 - 6, 2021.

Closer to home, in India, the long weekends of Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra ranked as the topmost

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holidays for travellers in 2021.

India is a land of diversities. This means many elaborate festivals and holidays. In India, some of the most popular holidays for travellers took place in the second half of this year, starting with Janmashtami in August, followed by Ganesh Chaturthi and Dussehra which saw a spike in bookings. This optimism around travel can be attributed to higher vaccination coverage and the opening up of several states for tourism in comparison to early 2021.

Indian travellers preferred spending their holidays across the country’s beautiful tourist destinations such as Jaipur, Goa, Visakhapatnam, Kochi and Udaipur during the festive season. Interestingly, shorthaul destinations continue to be the go-to option for travellers across the country over long

Agra Dussehra: Jaipur, Goa, Mysore, Varanasi, and Kochi Durga Puja: Jaipur, Kochi, Mysore, Goa, and Varanasi. In the North East, preferred locations were Puri, Gangtok and Digha Data insights in this table are based on OYO’s internal booking analysis

weekends. Some of the top shorthaul destinations are Lonavala, Pondicherry, Shimla, Mysore. All of these destinations sit close to mainstream cities of Mumbai, Chennai, Chandigarh, Delhi and Bangalore, indicating that city folks are looking for respite closer to home.

The long weekend of Dussehra saw a hike in demand, with an increase in trips to nearby destinations for a quick break.

In India, last-minute bookings continue to be on the rise. Not surprisingly, Indians travel to destinations known for their festive cheer. During a festival, the preference for destinations well-known to celebrate the festival with great vigor witnessed a spike in bookings.

For instance, during Ganesh Chaturthi, locals preferred going on short-haul trips to locations like Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, Lonavala, and Mumbai. The most

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TRAVEL

A rise in pet-friendly and sustainable travel options

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here is no doubt that the pandemic modified travel – but that’s just part of the story. Hilton released a global trends report, "The 2022 Traveler: Emerging Trends and the Redefined Traveler' which dives into an important truth: in two years, people’s lives were dramatically altered, and that radically changed people.

The report examines the macro trends and changes that have emerged and will continue to thrive in 2022. Using insights from Dr. Kate Cummins, a travel psychology expert, and industry leaders, the report explores four consistent themes that summarise the new, pandemicchanged traveler, which are fueling several emerging travel trends: Amid Chaos, People Found Efficiencies—And Will Be Looking for the Same in Travel: After on-demand services, grocery deliveries, and other time-saving

measures become commonplace, people expect efficiencies and convenience .Shifts like contactless payments and digital check-ins to become more popular than ever before.

Catering to this change, travellers can expect a rise in pet-friendly and sustainable travel options, unique food and beverage experiences and menu

changes, and more offerings catered to guests’ health and overall wellbeing – and this is just the tip of the iceberg. The report outlines changes to guest

preferences across the entire hotel experience, backed by internal booking and revenue data, guest feedback, third-party research and more.

IANS

The Overall Focus on Wellness Will Span Beyond the Gym: The wellness vertical has moved beyond the spa and the gym.

From bringing your dog along for the trip to creating spaces with more natural light and indoor plants, mental and physical wellness is a focus that will continue to grow.

They Nurtured New and Existing Passions and Will Have More Refined Tastes and Preferences: After months of baking sourdough breads and planting victory gardens, people have new hobbies and passions, and they’re expecting to pack their passions while traveling. Culinary and integrated experiences are expected to be in high demand.

Romantic stays for Mini-moon in India!

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mini-moon is an excellent way to unwind for a few days, forget about your worries, disconnect from technology, reconnect with nature, and simply be present with your partner before embarking on a lifetime together. Listed below are some of the top romantic hotels and venues in India suited for your Mini-Moon for couples longing for a wonderful Mini-Moon amidst this continuing pandemic and strict lockdown: Munjoh Resort in Andaman Island: Andaman comes to mind when you think about a vacation!

The 'Andaman', or should we say 'Maldives' of India, is one of India's most beautiful and magnificent islands. Andaman and Nicobar is one of India's most well-organized and cost-effective mini-moon destinations, offering a variety of lovely lodging options.

Munjoh - Luxury Boutique Resort is one of the most romantic and opulent hotels in Havelock and Port Blair. A beautiful and sumptuous beach house reserved exclusively for you to enjoy, do as you please. It's a warm and inviting haven with rooms for families, honeymooners, and even lone visitors, as well as a private beach in one of the world's most magnificent settings. The gorgeous beaches, sparkling blue ocean, and romantic tranquilly make it an ideal romantic escape.

The Rain by Vista Rooms in Alleppey, Kerala : This retreat illustrates that Kerala is regarded for having the cleanest environment in India. It offers the nicest and most natural vistas, as well as contemporary decor. This location is both luxurious and pleasant for your stay, making it well worth the

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IANS

visit. This is the first thing you see when you arrive in Alleppey, dubbed the “Venice of the East” for good reason.

Fazlani Nature’s Nest in Lonavala, Maharashtra: Your hunt for the most soothing stay in one of India’s most popular wellness retreats has come to an end. Fazlani Nature’s Nest, which overlooks the gorgeous waters of Mawal, features luxurious villas, an organic farm-to-fork restaurant where you can choose your own vegetables for the salad, an orchard, delightful afternoon duck parades, and equestrian therapy. This is the greatest romantic hideaway you’ve ever wanted, only 2 hours from Mumbai and Pune!

Ashore Villa in Goa : At Ashore villa Morjim Beach, you may unwind in luxury.

This ultra-luxurious house features contemporary art deco architecture and modern furnishings, making it ideal for families and groups of friends.

There are several places to unwind and rest in the villa.

While taking in a magnificent sunset, guests can rest in the infinity pool or rooftop deck.

The terrace, which includes a sky bar and a steam room, is ideal for a nighttime BBQ or cocktail party. The beachfront Villa Ashore Living by the Sea is located in Morjim in a beautiful, tranquil setting. Morjim is known for being the home or nesting place for Olive Riddle turtles, and the enticing water is great for learning to surf, wakeboard, or simply relaxing on the shores while reading a good book or working on your tan.

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WHAT’S ON

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WHAT’S ON

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Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

INDIA NEWS

Samantha joins 'Arrangements of Love' cast

Instagram

'Funny Boy' and is a series regular on 'The Good Karma Hospital'.

It follows a Welsh-Indian man on his quest to find his estranged father with an impromptu visit to his homeland.

ENTERTAINMENT

'Fighter' director Siddharth Anand on Hrithik Roshan: There's a hidden filmmaker in him Instagram

Samantha plays a strong minded and funny force of nature 27-year-old, who runs her own detective agency and becomes part of the search.

She is a progressive bisexual Tamil woman, with ultratraditional parents, who want her to have an arranged marriage. As much as she wants to please her parents she also wants to be able to make her own life choices.

"A whole new world opens up for me today as I start my journey with 'Arrangements of Love,' which has such an endearing and personal story," Samantha told Variety.

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outh star Samantha Ruth Prabhu has boarded the cast of feature film 'Arrangements of Love'.

Telugu language industries, Samantha's credits include S.S. Rajamouli's 'Eega', 'Super Deluxe', 'Janatha Garage' and 'Mersala'.

The film is to be directed by BAFTA-winning Welsh director Philip John, whose credits include 'Downton Abbey' and 'The Good Karma Hospital', reports variety. com.

Samir Sarkar, of Singapore's Magic Hour Films, has joined the project as executive producer.

The film is produced by Sunitha Tati's Indian outfit Guru Films, whose ;Oh! Baby', the 2019 Telugu-language adaptation of 2014 Korean film 'Miss Granny', was a commercial success. 'Oh! Baby' starred Samantha.

Active in both the Telugu and

Sarkar previously produced Rotterdam winner 'Nasir', 'Jonaki' and Kolkata winner 'The False Eye'.

'Arrangements of Love' is an adaptation of the bestselling 2004 novel of the same title by Indian author Timeri N. Murari by John and British Sri Lankan actor Nimmi Harasgama, who played the female lead in Deepa Mehta's

"I am excited to work with Philip John, whose projects I have closely followed for many years, being a big fan of 'Downton Abbey.' I am looking forward to collaborating with Sunitha once again and I hope for only more success than we previously had with 'Oh! Baby'.

My role is a complex character and it will be both a challenge and an opportunity for me to play it. I cannot wait to get on set."

"Having Samantha on board is indeed serendipitous. I have worked with her before and must say that she always brings her curiosity and talent to the project," Tati told Variety.

"I can already visualize the life that she will breathe into the character. It is a pleasure to work with her again as we explore the international waters together."

The film is expected to commence shooting in August, 2022.

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irector Siddharth Anand opened up about working with actor Hrithik Roshan and what makes him the best out there.

will directly uplift the film."

During an IFFI 2021 interaction, Sidharth said: "He (Hrithik) is a complete hero. There's nothing else that actually a director can ask for from an actor that Hrithik can't give you. I think you have to actually challenge yourself and come up with something time and again, every hour on the set that you can utilise his potential."

Hrithik Roshan opened up on working with Sidharth again for 'Fighter', he said: "Yes its extremely exciting and more so, because I think coming back on a set where Sid (Sidharth Anand) has seen me be a certain good in War which kind of drives me to know that this anxiety that is building, is because the good has already been done, it has to be better.

"Which I think none of us have yet been able to do and it's a challenge for all of us."

He added: "It's really exciting and motivating to be with him and in one of my earlier interviews I have said that I'd always aspired to become a filmmaker that Hrithik Roshan would do a film with, that I can just work with him or even just bonce off my ideas by him and get his feedback."

"Because there's a hidden filmmaker in him which not many actors are, and he looks at a broad perspective of the film, so when you do a 2 hero film with him it's a joy because he's not looking at himself at all he's only strengthening around him that

Siddharth feels Hrithik puts himself last which he thinks "is a great joy to be working with someone like that."

He added: "Personally, I think that is my responsibility, because I don't want to disappoint my director who has had the faith in me to cast me in a film like this and its scarier because its very hard to impress him now. Because I have done everything I could have but what more am I going to pull out of my pocket, that's something that I'm going to spend some nights thinking about."

Touted as India's First ariel action franchise, Fighter will see Hrithik collaborating with actress Deepika Padukone on screen for the first time ever.

Sunny Leone reunites with 'Baby Doll' hitmaker Kanika Kapoor for new track First look of Kannada flick 'Dilpasand' goes viral Instagram

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unny Leone will soon start shooting for her music video titled 'Madhuban' for which she has reunited with 'Baby Doll' singer Kanika Kapoor.

The two have delivered hit dance numbers in the past and have

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on Instagram by music label Saregama. The second winner, Shivika Pratap Singh, will be seen next to Sunny Leone grooving to the song.

The song will be choreographed

by Ganesh Acharya, who has worked with Sunny earlier on the sensational number 'Trippy Trippy'. Talking about her new outing, the actress said, "I am thrilled to be teaming up with Kanika and Ganesh and and I am thoroughly enjoying the experience. Kanika and I have done so many chartbuster numbers together; Ganesh master has choreographed me a lot. But this song has a special place in my heart. It is already a hit on reels and we have created a cracker of a dancer number together." been hailed as a great actorsinger duo.

What makes this song special is that the male singer of the track, Arindam Chakraborty was chosen after he won a contest #ReelyFamous hosted

The song will see Sunny in an Indian look in a large scale setting. Set to tune by Toshi and Shaarib Sabri, the song will hit the airwaves shortly and will be released on Saregama Music's YouTube channel and music apps.

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Instagram

T

he team of Kannada movie 'Dilpasand' is quite happy as the romantic and bold first look photos of lead actors Darling Krishna and Nishvika Naidu have gone viral on social media.

'Love Mocktail' actor Darling Krishna is seen first time in bold poses. 'Dilpasand' is a romantic entertainer written and directed

by Shiva Tejas.

The film is produced by Sumant

Kranti. Arjun Janaya has composed music. Director Shiva Tejas says the movie is a sweet romantic drama and narrates the younger generation's take on love.

There is a right blend of humour in the movie, he says.

'Dilpasand' is named after a popular sweet dish. Megha Shetty is seen in another lead character.

Saadhu Kokila, Tabala Naani, and Rangayana Raghu play key roles.

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INDIA NEWS

Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

ENTERTAINMENT

Anushka reacts to PC roasting Nick 'Phone Bhoot' to hit the big screen on July 15, 2022 Jonas: How good are you at this IANS

actor and applauded her.

The 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' actress wrote: "How good are you in this @priyankachopra!!(hearts emoji)."

In the short clip, Priyanka is heard saying: "Hi everyone. I'm honoured and so thrilled actually and tickled to be here tonight to roast my husband, Nick Jonas, and his brothers whose names I can never remember. I'm from India a country rich in culture, music and entertainment. So clearly, the Jonas brothers didn't make it over there."

She then went on to joke about the age gap between her and Nick.

Priyanka said: "Nick and I have a 10-year age gap. Yes, we do.

There are many 90s pop culture references he doesn't understand and I have to explain them to him.

Which is fine because we teach each other. We teach other things.

He showed me how to use Tik Tok for example. You know, and I showed him what a successful acting career looks like."

B

ollywood actress Anushka Sharma had the best reaction to Indian actress Priyanka Chopra's roasting her American pop-singer Nick Jonas and his

brothers Joe and Kevin.

Anushka took to her Instagram stories and heaped praises on Priyanka. Anushka re-shared a post by her 'Dil Dhadakne Do' co-

Speaking about Anushka, she has two films in the pipeline. The actress will be seen in Navdeep Singh's 'Kaneda', and a biopic of cricketer Jhulan Goswami.

Anushka was last seen in the film 'Zero' in 2018. She produced the web series 'Paatal Lok' and the film 'Bulbbul' for OTT last year.

K

atrina Kaif, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Ishaan Khatter-starrer horror-comedy 'Phone Bhoot' is all set to release on July 15 next year.

Directed by Gurmmeet Singh, written by Ravi Shankaran and Jasvinder Singh Bath, ‘Phone Bhoot', is Excel Entertainment's newest offering after 'Gully Boy' and 'Toofaan'.

Interestingly, the release of

‘Phone Bhoot' coincides with that of the iconic ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' that released on July 15, 2011 and marks Katrina Kaif, Ishaan and Siddhant Chaturvedi's first film together.

Sprinkled with equal doses of spook and laughter, 'Phone Bhoot' is all set to ring in cinemas near you on July 15, 2022.

Details about the plot of the film are still under wraps.

'Soul Anthem' of 'RRR' released with video featuring Jr NTR, Ram Charan

Abhishek Bachchan: Leaving vanity behind was the first challenge to become 'Bob Biswas'

IANS

crushed me but it didn't, you know why? Because that means, I am looking very convincing as 'Bob Biswas', I am looking my part!"

The story of the film is written by Sujoy Ghosh and directed by Diya Annapurna Ghosh. The film also features Paran Bandopadhyay, Tina Desai among others.

E

ven though it was not the first time for him to gain body weight and portray an older character on-screen, as he has done that before in Mani Ratnam's 'Guru', Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan says he really had to leave the vanity of an actor in his hotel room before becoming 'Bob Biswas'.

The actor is playing the title role in the upcoming crime-thriller 'Bob Biswas' which is a spin-off to the film 'Kahaani' that was released in 2012.

Asked about what was the most challenging part for him to prepare for his character Abhishek told IANS : "My first challenge of playing 'Bob Biswas' was to leave my vanity as an actor to the hotel room and step into the very look of Bob...he has no vanity at all! As an actor

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you are trained to be conscious of your look you know, it is a visual medium at the end of the day and I want to look my best, right? Now, look at Bob...so I had to overcome that! I remember the first time I met Chitrangada (Singh, female protagonist of the film) and then we had a table read before the shooting. This was the first time I was working with her and she was also very excited about the whole collaboration.

She said she liked Sujoy's work and was also looking forward to working with me. The next thing that happened is, our first day of shooting."

He went on to narrate the incident, "I came out after my hair and make-up and when I reached out to the set and she saw me for the first time...her reaction was like...'ehhhh'! so not flattering!

That reaction of hers could have

Sharing an insight into his character 'Bob', Abhishek said, "He has come out of coma and here he has a nice family life with a wife and two children, a middle-class household. But eventually, his past catches up with him and then how he deals with it, is where the journey started. He is filled with internal conflict. For me, it was so interesting to build the character brick by brick because he does not have any past memories.

"So, he could be anyone...there is no formula of how to play Bob to be in sync with the earlier Bob that we have seen in 'Kahaani'. In fact, I just want to mention that I did not watch the film 'Kahaani' initially...I watched it later when we all were stuck in lockdown.

The film is so fresh and new, that the name of the film could have been anything, instead of Bob Biswas!"

The film 'Bob Biswas' is a Bound Script production presented by Red Chillies Entertainment and releases on December 3 on ZEE5.

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Hyderabad, Nov 26 (IANS): Billed as the 'Soul Anthem' of S.S. Rajamouli's upcoming period drama 'RRR', the song 'Janani' was released here on Friday. The Telugu movie has Jr NTR and Ram Charan in the lead roles.

The song's video opens with a heart-warming note by the music director M.M. Keeravani.

Talking about his music, Keeravani said the film "throbs with many pulse-pounding moments" and then noted: "Underlying all those spectacular sequences is one consuming emotion that elevates them.

Giving musical form to the beat of that very heart was one of the most fulfilling experiences."

The visuals of 'Janani' impress viewers with their grandeur, but the soul-touching music is what elevates the experience.

The lyrical song opens with visuals of Ram Charan's character, the late 19th-century tribal freedom fighter and martyr, Alluri Sitarama Raju, appearing in the uniform of a sepoy, his eyes conveying the pain he internalises.

Jr NTR's tears in the next segment convey the anguish of his character, Komaram Bheem, the Gond freedom fighter who fought against the Nizam's administration between 1928 and his death in a police encounter in 1940.

The focus then shifts to Ajay Devgn and Shriya Saran. "Sarojini, I am nothing but my fight for freedom. You are a fragment of it," Devgn's character says as Shriya silently collects the dirt, fallen off his feet, to preserve for the rest of her life. The rest of the video portrays heartbreaking visuals from the battle ground, which represents the soul of the song 'Janani' / 'Uyire'.

"Janani is just the beginning of the emotional journey envisaged by @ssrajamouli garu. #RRRSoulAnthem out on November 26th. M.M. Keeravani garu's soulful composition will tug at your heartstrings. Stay tuned to 'RRR' Movie," Ram Charan had tweeted earlier, indicating that the song is one of the highlights from the upcoming film.

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INDIA NEWS

Luxury, lifestyle, location — welcome to Dress Circle

Dec 1-15, 2021 - Vol 2, Issue 10

Located in the heart of one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, Brookwater is Brisbane’s best kept secret for luxury living. Crafted around the Greg Norman designed golf course, Brookwater provides a rare combination of prestige golf-side living and natural bushland beauty.

With over 800 families already calling Brookwater home, we are pleased to introduce the next stage of this exclusive community — your own architecturally designed piece of paradise — Dress Circle.

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Life on Brookwater’s Dress Circle is within 10 minutes of everything you need — commuter rail to the city, private and public schools, childcare centres, a university, a private hospital, shopping centres and a thriving commercial precinct.

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